Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of the Middle East! This extraordinary dish combines the creamy richness of yellow split peas and fava beans with the tangy, vibrant punch of tomato-braised capers. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a curious food adventurer, this recipe promises to revolutionize your dinner routine with its incredible blend of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow split peas
- 1 cup fava beans, peeled
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup capers
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the yellow split peas and fava beans under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer. This will help remove any dust or impurities.
- In a medium-sized pot, combine the rinsed yellow split peas, fava beans, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The peas and beans should become tender and begin to break down.
- While the split peas and fava beans are cooking, prepare the tomato-braised capers. In a separate skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release their juices.
- Next, add the capers to the skillet with the tomatoes. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the yellow split peas and fava beans are tender, remove the pot from heat. Use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency. It can be smooth or slightly chunky, depending on your preference.
- Season the mashed peas and fava beans with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary.
- To serve, spoon the mashed yellow split peas and fava onto plates or into bowls, and top generously with the tomato-braised capers. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil if desired.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro if you have them on hand for added flavor and presentation.
- Enjoy your delicious Middle Eastern-inspired meal!
Tips
- Always rinse your split peas and fava beans thoroughly to remove any debris and ensure a clean, pure flavor.
- For the creamiest texture, use an immersion blender, but be careful not to over-blend. Some texture adds character to the dish.
- Control the consistency of your mash by adjusting the amount of vegetable broth. More liquid creates a smoother result.
- Fresh herbs are not just a garnish - they can dramatically enhance the overall flavor profile, so don't skip them!
- If you prefer a richer taste, consider replacing some vegetable broth with olive oil or adding a touch of butter when mashing.
- Capers can be quite salty, so taste and adjust your seasoning carefully to balance the flavors.
- This dish tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance for meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
