Fava Bean Stew (Koukia Yahnista or Yahni)

Note: Soaking dried beans rehydrates them and results in more tender beans and shorter cooking time. If you don't have an extra day to soak the beans overnight, you can try the quick soak method below.

Quick Soaking Method:

1. Gather the ingredients.

2. Add beans plus enough water to cover beans by 2 inches to a pot.

3. Add 2 tablespoons salt and stir.

4. Bring beans to a rolling boil.

5. Turn off heat, cover, and soak for an hour.

6. Drain and rinse beans under cold water before using.

Preparing the Stew:

1. Gather the ingredients.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium high heat.

3. Add the onions and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.

4. Add the tomatoes, parsley, cumin, and bay leaves and continue to sauté for another 5 to 10 minutes until the flavors are nicely combined.

5. Add the water to the pot and bring to a boil.

6. Add the fava beans and lower the heat to a simmer. Simmer covered for 45 minutes.

7. Remove the cover and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

8. Simmer another 10 to 15 minutes until the beans are tender cooked but not mushy.

9. Discard bay leaves.

10. Serve with a drizzle of your favorite extra-virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

11. Enjoy!