Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups of cooked fava beans
- 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup of pitted kalamata olives
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup of lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Food processor
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse and drain the cooked fava beans.
2. In a food processor, combine the fava beans, feta cheese, kalamata olives, olive oil, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Pulse until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the bigilla to a serving bowl.
5. Garnish with additional crumbled feta cheese and kalamata olives, if desired.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Serving size:
- Makes about 2 cups of bigilla.
- Serves 4-6 people as an appetizer.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 235
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 6g
- Fiber: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Fava beans can be substituted with chickpeas or white beans.
- Kalamata olives can be substituted with any type of pitted olives.
- Feta cheese can be substituted with goat cheese or queso fresco.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cumin or paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Top with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro.
- Add a tablespoon of tahini for a nutty flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- If the bigilla is too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- For a smoother texture, peel the fava beans before adding them to the food processor.
- Bigilla can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Storage instructions:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a shallow bowl with pita chips or sliced vegetables for dipping.
Garnishes:
- Crumbled feta cheese and kalamata olives.
Pairings:
- Serve with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant.
- Hummus and pita bread.
- Greek salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the bigilla is too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Food safety advice:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Food history:
- Bigilla is a traditional Maltese dish made with fava beans and spices.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, tangy, and salty.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or snack.
Related Categories
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Region: Maltese