Jiangsu-style Salted Fava Beans

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the original Spanish Habas saladas is transformed into a Jiangsu-style dish by incorporating traditional Jiangsu flavors and cooking techniques. The addition of ginger, garlic, and star anise infuses the fava beans with a distinct Jiangsu taste. The use of soy sauce and sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor profile that is characteristic of Jiangsu cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Habas saladas, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) fava beans 500g (1.1 lb) fava beans
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 2 star anise 2 star anise
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 22g, 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Shell the fava beans and blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and star anise to the wok. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. 4.
   Add the blanched fava beans to the wok and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are slightly tender.
5. 5.
   Pour in the soy sauce and continue to stir-fry for another 2 minutes, ensuring the beans are well coated.
6. 6.
   Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the fava beans and stir-fry for an additional minute.
7. 7.
   Season with salt to taste and remove from heat.
8. 8.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fava beans — Make sure to blanch the fava beans before stir-frying to achieve the perfect texture. Remove the outer skin of the beans if desired for a smoother consistency.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of Chinese five-spice powder to the dish.
• If fava beans are not available, you can substitute them with edamame beans for a similar texture and taste.
• Adjust the amount of soy sauce according to your preference for saltiness.
• Serve the Jiangsu-style salted fava beans as a side dish or as part of a larger Jiangsu-inspired meal.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Jiangsu-style salted fava beans as a side dish alongside steamed rice or noodles. They also make a great addition to a vegetarian stir-fry or can be enjoyed on their own as a light and flavorful snack.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Jiangsu-style salted fava beans in a vibrant green pile on a serving plate. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color. Serve the dish family-style, allowing everyone to help themselves and savor the enticing aroma.