Moroccan Bissara – Bissara Recipe – How to Cook Moroccan Bissara

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Moroccan Bissara – Bissara Recipe – How to Cook Moroccan Bissara

Bissara, also known as Bayssara, is one of the most beloved and traditional Moroccan dishes. It’s a hearty, warming soup made primarily from split fava beans and split peas, which give it its signature texture and nutritional richness. Popular especially in the winter months, Bissara provides energy, warmth, and comfort on cold days.

This dish is not only simple and economical, but it’s also packed with essential vitamins, fiber, and minerals, making it ideal for regular home cooking—especially during chilly weather.

Ingredients for Moroccan Bissara:

Moroccan Bissara

 

  • 500 grams (½ kg / about 1.1 lbs) of split peas, rinsed and cleaned

  • 500 grams (½ kg / about 1.1 lbs) of split fava beans, rinsed and cleaned

  • 2 large onions, finely chopped

  • ½ cup of fresh parsley, finely chopped

  • ½ cup of fresh cilantro, finely chopped

  • 5 large garlic cloves, peeled

  • Salt to taste

  • Black pepper to taste

  • 4 tablespoons of ground cumin

  • 4 tablespoons of olive oil

  • Water (as needed for cooking)

How to Prepare Moroccan Bissara:

  1. In a large pot, combine the split peas, split fava beans, chopped onions, parsley, cilantro, and garlic cloves.
    Add enough drinking water to fully cover the ingredients.

  2. Place the pot over high heat and bring to a boil.
    Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
    Check periodically to make sure the mixture isn’t drying out—add more water as needed during cooking.

  3. When the legumes are fully cooked and tender, remove the pot from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.

  4. Use an electric blender or immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy.

  5. Pass the blended soup through a fine sieve (optional, but traditional for a smoother texture), then return the mixture to the pot.

  6. Place the pot back on the heat for about 7 more minutes, adding salt and black pepper to taste. Stir occasionally.

  7. Once thick and well-blended, remove the pot from heat.

  8. To Serve:
    Pour the Bissara into serving bowls, drizzle each with olive oil, and generously sprinkle ground cumin on top.

Serving Tip:
Bissara is traditionally enjoyed with warm crusty bread, fresh lemon wedges, and sometimes with a sprinkle of chili powder or paprika for those who like a spicy kick.

Sahtein / Bon appétit!
This cozy dish is perfect for a nourishing family meal or for serving guests during cold evenings.

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