
Preparation time | 15 min |
Cooking Time | 45 min |
Ready In | 1 h |
Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Servings | 8 |
Portuguese Fava Beans Stew, also known as "favas guisadas," is a traditional dish from Portugal that features fava beans as its main ingredient. Fava beans are large, flat beans that are similar in size to lima beans and are commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine.
To make the stew, the fava beans are typically soaked overnight and then cooked with chouriço, bacon, onion, garlic, and a variety of other vegetables such as carrots and potatoes. The dish is seasoned with paprika, bay leaves, and salt and pepper to taste. Some recipes also call for tomato paste or canned tomatoes to add a slightly tangy flavor to the dish.
The stew is typically simmered for a few hours until the fava beans are tender and the flavors have melded together. It is often served with crusty bread and a glass of red wine.
Favada is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for cooler weather. It is a great option for those following a plant-based or vegetarian diet as well, as the dish is often made without meat or can easily be adapted to be meat-free.
Ingredients

Directions
- Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Saute onion and garlic until golden brown.
- Stir in red pepper flakes, tomato sauce, hot water, parsley, salt, pepper, paprika and sausage, let it cook/boil for 10 to 15 minutes, reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Gently stir in fava beans.
- Remove from heat and let stand for several minutes to allow flavors to meld.


