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Traditional Bigilla with Toasted Maltese Bread
Traditional Bigilla with Toasted Maltese Bread
Classic DishBigilla
Prep: 15 min • Cook: 5 min. Experience authentic Bigilla, a rustic Maltese dip crafted from mashed broad beans, potent garlic, rich olive oil, and fresh parsley. This hearty and flavorful spread is a staple in Maltese cuisine, offering a taste of the island's rich culinary heritage. Perfect served with crusty, toasted Maltese bread, it makes for an ideal appetizer or snack.
- Preparation time
- 15 min
- Cooking time
- 5 min
- Total time
- 20 min
- Servings
- 6
Instructions
Preparing the Fava Beans
- 1Soak the dried fava beans in cold water overnight. Drain and rinse well.
- 2Place the soaked fava beans in a large pot and cover with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until very tender. Drain thoroughly.
Making the Bigilla
- 1Transfer the cooked fava beans to a food processor or a large bowl if using an immersion blender.
- 2Add minced garlic, olive oil, chopped fresh parsley, and chili flakes (if using) to the fava beans.
- 3Process or mash until smooth. For a more rustic texture, you can leave it slightly chunky.
- 4Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well.
- 5For best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving
- 1While the Bigilla chills, slice the Maltese bread and toast until golden brown and crispy.
- 2Serve the Traditional Bigilla as a dip with the warm, toasted Maltese bread.
Nutrition Information
- Calories
- 216 kcal
- Protein
- 8 g
- Fat
- 11 g
- Carbs
- 22 g
| Nutrient | Per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 216 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Fat | 11 g |
| Carbs | 22 g |
Tips
- For a smoother Bigilla, remove the outer skins of the fava beans after cooking by pinching them.
- If the Bigilla is too thick, add a tablespoon of the fava bean cooking water or a little more olive
- Garnish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.