Fave e cicorie
A classic Apulian dish of mashed fava beans served with sautéed chicory. Simple, rustic, and flavorful.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Fave e Cicorie represents a culinary cornerstone of Apulia, reflecting the region's history of poverty and resourcefulness. Fava beans, an ancient crop, have long been a staple, providing sustenance to the poorer populations. Chicory, a wild green readily available in the countryside, complemented the beans, creating a dish born from necessity and shaped by the land's offerings. Its simplicity reflects a time when ingredients were scarce, and culinary skills were focused on maximizing flavor with minimal resources.
Fave e Cicorie is more than just a dish; it's a symbol of Apulian identity and a reminder of the region's agricultural heritage.
Simplicity and Tradition
The dish embodies the values of simple living and respect for tradition, showcasing how resourceful cooks could create delicious meals from humble ingredients.
Rural Roots
Fave e Cicorie is deeply connected to the rural lifestyle of Apulia, where farming and foraging were integral parts of daily life. It represents the connection between the people and the land.
Communal Eating
Historically, this dish was often shared communally, fostering a sense of togetherness and shared experience. Even today, it's often enjoyed in a family or group setting.
Earthy, slightly bitter, and subtly sweet, Fave e Cicorie offers a contrasting yet harmonious flavor profile.
The dominant flavor comes from the creamy, earthy mashed fava beans. Dried fava beans, once cooked, have a smooth, almost buttery texture and a slightly sweet, nutty taste. Chicory provides a counterpoint with its characteristic bitterness, which is tempered by sautéing with garlic and olive oil. A drizzle of good quality olive oil at the end adds richness and enhances the overall flavor. Some variations include a touch of chili flakes for a subtle heat.
Soaking the Fava Beans
Soaking the dried fava beans overnight is crucial for reducing cooking time and improving their texture. It also helps to remove some of the compounds that can cause digestive discomfort.
Preparing the Chicory
Properly cleaning and blanching the chicory is essential to reduce its bitterness. Blanching briefly in boiling water before sautéing helps to soften the leaves and mellow the flavor.
Olive Oil Quality
Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil, preferably from Apulia. The olive oil is a key ingredient and significantly contributes to the flavor profile of the dish.
Texture Preference
Adjust the consistency of the mashed fava beans to your liking. Some prefer a smoother, almost puree-like texture, while others prefer a coarser, more rustic mash.
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