Fava Bean Ragout

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Shell: 2 pounds fava beans

   Step 2

   Cook in boiling water for 1 minute or so and then cool in ice water. Drain and pop the beans out of their skins.

   Step 3

   Heat in a heavy-bottomed saucepan: 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter.

   Step 4

   Add: 2 small spring onions, trimmed and sliced crosswise.

   Step 5

   Cook over medium heat until soft, about 4 minutes. Add the peeled fava beans and: 1 small green garlic, trimmed and sliced crosswise, Salt.

   Step 6

   Pour in enough water to come up 1/4 inch in the pan. Bring to a boil and then turn down to a simmer. Cook for 4 minutes or until the fava beans are tender. Add: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil or butter, 2 teaspoons chopped parsley or chervil.

   Step 7

   Swirl to combine. Taste for salt and adjust as needed.

2. Variations

   Step 8

   Substitute peas for half of the fava beans.

   Step 9

   A small onion can be used instead of the spring onions.