Spring Vegetables: Fava Beans

Fava beans, also called broad beans, are in season in the Midwest and Northeast during the late spring and early summer. These beans, which have been a stable in Egyptian, Middle Eastern, and Asian cusines for more than 3000 years, are a good source of protein.

Buy long, plump, heavy pods that are bright green and unblemished. Store them up to a week in the refrigerator.

To prepare: remove the beans from the pods, then boil briefly and remove the outer skin from each bean (it will slide right off).

Add to salads, stir-frys, or serve as a side dish.

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