Ful Medames

Ful Medames – hearty South Sudan bean dish
South-Sudan
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Ful Medames is a beloved breakfast dish in South Sudan, made from tender fava beans. It holds cultural significance, often enjoyed during communal meals and special occasions. This hearty dish is a staple, providing nourishment and comfort to families across the nation.

⚡ Easy 🔥 ~320 kcal / serving

Ingredients

  • 2 cups dried fava beans, soaked overnight
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground chili powder (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons tahini (optional)
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tomato, diced (optional)
  • Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)

Instructions

Cook the Fava Beans

Drain the soaked fava beans and rinse them well.

In a large pot, add the fava beans and enough water to cover them by about 2 inches.

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface.

Prepare the Aromatics

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Season the Beans

Once the beans are tender, drain any excess water, leaving just a little bit of cooking liquid to keep the beans moist.

Add the sautéed onion and garlic to the beans.

Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground chili powder (if using), salt, and black pepper.

Use a masher or the back of a spoon to slightly mash some of the beans, leaving most of them whole.

Add Flavorings

Stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley.

If using, mix in the tahini for extra creaminess.

Serve

Transfer the ful medames to a serving dish.

Top with chopped hard-boiled eggs and diced tomato, if desired.

Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil.

Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ful Medames?

Ful Medames is a flavorful dish made primarily from fava beans, seasoned with spices and often served with bread or vegetables.

Where does Ful Medames come from?

Ful Medames is widely enjoyed in South Sudan and has roots in ancient Egyptian cuisine, evolving into a staple across various cultures.

What are the main ingredients in Ful Medames?

Key ingredients include dried fava beans, onion, garlic, olive oil, cumin, coriander, chili powder, and salt.

How long does Ful Medames take to make?

Ful Medames takes approximately 110-150 minutes to prepare and cook.

What do you serve with Ful Medames?

Serve Ful Medames with fresh bread, boiled eggs, or a side of vegetables for a complete meal.