Fava Bean and Mint Soup

Celebrate the vivid shades of summer with the Fava Bean and Mint Soup—a beautifully cool and pale green creation that’s both visually appealing and bursting with flavor. This delightful soup, flecked with the bright hues of mint and freshly skinned beans, captures the essence of the season in every spoonful. With a touch of Greek yogurt for creaminess and a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne for a gentle kick, this soup is a testament to the harmonious pairing of freshness and taste. Prepare to be enchanted by its cool elegance, perfect for those warm weather days when you crave a light yet fulfilling dish.

SERVES 4
PREP 30 MIN
COOK 25 MIN
FREEZE UP TO 3 MONTHS AT THE END OF STEP 2

INGREDIENTS:

• 1lb (450g) fava beans (shelled weight), thawed if frozen
• 2 tbsp (30g) butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 rib celery, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp short-grain rice
• 1 generous sprig summer savory or thyme
• 1 quart (1 liter) chicken or vegetable stock
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 4oz (110g) Greek yogurt
• Handful of fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 4 small sprigs of mint, to serve
• Paprika or cayenne pepper, to serve

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Begin by prepping the fava beans. If they’re fresh, blanch them in boiling water for 1 minute, then cool them under cold water. Whether fresh or frozen, remove the tough outer skin of each bean by gently slitting it with a knife or fingernail and squeezing out the vibrant green bean inside. Set aside about one-eighth of the beans, chop them coarsely, and keep them aside.
2. In a covered pan over low heat, melt the butter. Gently sweat the chopped onion and thinly sliced celery in the melted butter for about 10 minutes, or until they become incredibly tender. Add the short-grain rice and summer savory or thyme, cooking for an additional minute without the lid. Introduce the unchopped fava beans, 3¾ cups of stock, and a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for approximately 10 minutes, or until the rice reaches its desired tenderness. Remove the herbs.
3. Blend the mixture in batches until smooth, adding more stock if you prefer a looser consistency.
4. Shortly before serving, reheat the blended soup thoroughly, then remove it from the heat. Mix a tablespoonful of Greek yogurt with the reserved chopped beans and chopped mint. Gradually incorporate the remaining yogurt, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s all added. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Serve the Fava Bean and Mint Soup while it’s still warm, garnishing each bowl with a sprig of mint and a light dusting of paprika or cayenne pepper on the surface.

Elevate your culinary experience with the Fava Bean and Mint Soup, a masterpiece that exudes elegance and cool vibrancy. This soup boasts a captivating pale green hue, adorned with the delicate presence of mint and the vibrant essence of skinned fava beans. Whether you’re seeking a refreshing summer appetizer or a light meal, this dish will tantalize your taste buds and enchant your senses.

As you indulge in each spoonful of this enchanting creation, remember that it’s a celebration of simplicity and aesthetic beauty. The mingling flavors of fava beans, mint, and Greek yogurt dance harmoniously, creating a symphony of taste that’s both soothing and invigorating. And while its flavors are meant to be savored, a gentle reminder: avoid reheating the soup once the yogurt has been added to prevent any curdling.

Delight in the delicate fusion of flavors that the Fava Bean and Mint Soup offers. With a handful of quality ingredients and a touch of creativity, you can experience the joy of fine dining right in your own home. Share this refreshing masterpiece with loved ones, and let its charm transport you to a realm of culinary elegance.