Bissara (Fresh Fava Bean Dip)

INGREDIENTS

2 pounds fresh fava beans, shelled
3 Tbsp lemon juice
5 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/4 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp minced fresh parsley
pita wedges, sliced raw carrots, or crackers for serving

DIRECTIONS

Fill a medium saucepan with water and bring it to a boil. Blanch the beans for 2 or 3 minutes. Drain, reserving 3 tablespoons of the cooking liquid. Peel if the beans are large.

In a blender or food processor, combine half the beans, the reserved liquid, and the lemon juice. Add more liquid if you prefer a thinner dip. Process, scraping down the sides with a spatula, until the mixture is fairly smooth. Add the remaining beans and the oil, and process until smooth.

Transfer to a serving bowl and stir in the salt and cumin. Sprinkle with the parsley. Serve with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers for dipping.