A fusion of flavors and technique from two cuisines makes this main course taste new. The cooking method is based on an Italian fricassea made with egg yolks and cream; the combination of favas and mint is Middle Eastern. The resulting dish is absolutely delicious. Serve with plenty of crusty bread to mop up the sauce.
Fresh fava beans are available at Middle Eastern markets, some farmers' markets, and some supermarkets. Frozen double-peeled fava beans are sold at Middle Eastern markets; they don't require blanching before using in this recipe. If available, fresh lima beans can also be substituted.
Recipe information
Yield
Makes 6 servings
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Cook fresh fava beans in large pot of boiling salted water 2 minutes. Drain favas. Place in large bowl of ice water. Drain. Slip outer skin off each bean and discard skin; place beans in large bowl. (If using frozen beans, do not blanch.)
Step 2
Melt 1 tablespoon butter with 1 tablespoon oil in large nonstick skillet over high heat. Working in batches, add beef and sauté just until browned on both sides, about 2 minutes. Transfer beef to medium bowl.
Step 3
Melt remaining 1 tablespoon butter with 1 tablespoon oil in same skillet over medium heat. Add onions; sauté until tender and golden, about 15 minutes. Add fava beans; sauté 5 minutes. Remove from heat; cool 15 minutes.
Step 4
Meanwhile, whisk whipping cream, lemon juice, egg yolks, salt, and pepper in small bowl to blend. Stir cream mixture into fava bean mixture. Cook over medium-low heat just until sauce thickens slightly and mixture is heated through, about 6 minutes (do not boil). Add beef and stir until heated through, about 3 minutes. Transfer fricassee to rimmed platter. Sprinkle with mint.
