Algerian Broad Beans & Garlic ( Fèves En Sauce )
Here is my traditional recipe for Ros Bratel, which is a very old recipe from Algeria. It is simple to make with just a few ingredients & is really delicious. Eat it with plenty of fresh crusty bread for an inexpensive, light meal or have it as a side to roasted meats etc.
Total time
50 min
Servings
1
Calories
277.7
Category
Sides
Experience the vibrant, earthy flavors of Algeria with this traditional Fèves en Sauce. This simple, one-dish meal highlights the creamy texture of broad beans sautéed with aromatic garlic and warm spices. Naturally vegan, heart-healthy, and budget-friendly, this dish is a perfect weeknight dinner that brings authentic North African comfort to your table in under an hour.
Ingredients
Makes 1 serving
- 1 broad bean
- 1 fresh cilantro
- 6 garlic cloves
- 3 -4 olive oil
- 1 paprika
- 1/4 cayenne
- 1/8 black pepper
- 1 - 1 1/2 salt
- 600 vinegar
- water
Method
Top & tail the bean then remove the strings. Leave the beans in their pod. Cut into bitesize pieces - approx 1" long.
Peel & mince the garlic & place in a large, heavy bottomed pan (I like to use my Le Creuset Casserole / Dutch Oven) with the beans. Saute for 2 minutes.
Add the rest of the ingredients, cover & simmer until beans are tender - approx 25-30 minutes. Once the beans are tender, reduce the sauce to your prefered thickness & mix in the vinegar.
Cook's notes
- Use fresh fava beans when in season, double-peeling them for a buttery texture.
- If using canned broad beans, rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove excess sodium.
- Toast your spices (cumin and paprika) for 30 seconds before adding the beans to unlock deep, aromatic flavors.
- Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before eating to brighten the savory garlic notes.
Easy swaps
- If fresh or canned broad beans are unavailable, frozen baby lima beans are a great texture substitute.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or harissa paste if you prefer a spicy kick.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro instead of traditional coriander for a different herbaceous profile.
Frequently asked
What are fèves?
Fèves is the French name for broad beans or fava beans. They are a staple in Mediterranean and North African cooking, prized for their nutty, creamy consistency.
Is this Algerian broad beans recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is 100% vegan, utilizing plant-based ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and spices to create a rich, savory flavor profile.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. This dish often tastes even better the next day as the spices have more time to infuse into the beans.
