Egyptian Bissara – Traditional Recipe and Preparation Method

Egyptian Bissara – Traditional Recipe and Preparation Method

Bissara is one of Egypt’s oldest and most beloved traditional dishes. A staple of humble kitchens across the country, it’s known for its rich flavor, high nutritional value, and extremely simple, low-cost ingredients. Despite its affordability, bissara is packed with health benefits, thanks to the herbs, legumes, and fresh greens it contains.

This hearty and comforting dish is also vegan, naturally gluten-free, and can be served warm or cold—making it a versatile choice for any season or occasion.

---

Ingredients:

 

• 2 cups of split fava beans (peeled)

• 6 cups of water

• ½ cup of chopped fresh coriander

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves

• 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley

• 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh coriander

• ¼ cup of fresh mint (or 1 teaspoon of dried mint as a substitute)

• ¼ cup of thinly sliced onion (cut into matchstick-size strips)

• 1 cup of flour

• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Additional oil for frying

• Ground cumin and dry mint (for seasoning)

---

How to Prepare Egyptian Bissara:

1. Prep the Fava Beans:
   Rinse the beans thoroughly. Ideally, soak them for about 8 hours to soften. If short on time, boil them for 7 minutes, then rinse with cold water and drain.

2. Cook the Base:
   In a large pot, add the beans, water, chopped onion, garlic, parsley, coriander, and mint—reserving the tablespoon of oil for later.
   Cook the mixture over low heat for about 2 hours. Do not stir during this time.

3. Adjust Water if Needed:
   If the water level gets too low during cooking, add more as necessary.
   Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.

4. Blend the Mixture:
   Once all the ingredients are fully cooked and tender, strain the mixture and blend it—either with a blender or manually—until smooth.

5. Thicken the Bissara:
   Return the pureed mixture to the stove over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens into a creamy, dense consistency.

6. Season:
   Add salt, pepper, cumin, and a sprinkle of dried mint. Continue to stir until the bissara reaches a smooth, hearty texture.

7. Prepare the Topping:
   In a separate small pan, fry the minced garlic with dried coriander in a little oil until golden and fragrant.
   Pour this sizzling topping over the surface of the bissara.

8. Serve:
   Bissara can be served hot or cold. Pour it into serving dishes, drizzle with extra olive oil if desired, and garnish with lemon slices for added brightness.
   Traditionally, it’s enjoyed with crispy flatbread and raw onion on the side.

---

This humble yet flavorful dish is a perfect representation of Egyptian home cooking: nutritious, affordable, and full of earthy, comforting taste. Whether as a main meal or a side dish, bissara brings warmth and authenticity to any table.