Tangy & Savory: Traditional Besarah Broad Bean Dip

If you’re looking for a traditional, hearty dip that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than Besarah—a velvety smooth broad bean dip that’s a beloved staple in Middle Eastern cuisine. Packed with tender broad beans, fragrant dried mint, and an irresistible garlicky taleyeh topping, this dip is perfect for sharing and pairs wonderfully with flatbreads or fresh vegetables.

Besarah brings together simple ingredients in a way that highlights the richness of the broad beans and the aromatic spices that make Middle Eastern cuisine so vibrant. The taleyeh, a sizzling onion and garlic garnish, takes this dip to the next level, infusing it with deep flavors and a hint of sweetness. Whether served as an appetizer, a mezze platter addition, or a savory spread, Besarah is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

Why You’ll Love Besarah:

• Flavourful & Fragrant: The combination of dried mint, black pepper, and optional molokhia gives Besarah a unique depth of flavor that is both earthy and aromatic.

• Perfectly Smooth Texture: The beans are simmered to perfection and then pureed, resulting in a creamy, spreadable dip that’s rich and satisfying.

• Versatile & Customizable: Top with the taleyeh (sautéed onion and garlic) for added richness, or garnish with fresh radishes, spring onions, and lemon wedges for a refreshing crunch. You can also add a drizzle of olive oilfor extra richness.

• Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for casual gatherings, potlucks, or as a fun appetizer to pair with flatbreads, pita, or vegetable crudités. Besarah is a versatile dip that will appeal to anyone who loves bold, savory flavors.

  
  

Ingedients:

• 350 g (12 oz) dried broad beans, soaked and skinned

• 900 ml (1 ½ pints) water

• 1 ½ teaspoons salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 teaspoons dried mint

• 1 teaspoon molokhia (optional)

For the Taleyeh (Onion & Garlic Garnish):

• 1 large onion

• 4-5 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 clove garlic, finely chopped

Garnishes:

• Olive oil

• Chopped onion

• Spring onions

• Radishes

• Lemon wedges

  
  

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Taleyeh: Begin by cutting the onion in half lengthwise, then thinly slice it into semicircular pieces. Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat, and add the onion. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and caramelized.

2. Add the finely chopped garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Turn off the heat and set the taleyeh aside.

3. Cook the Broad Beans: Place the soaked and de-skinned broad beans in a large pot, adding enough water to cover them. Bring the beans to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 1 ½ hours, or until the beans are tender and fully cooked. If the beans begin to boil dry, add a bit more water as needed.

4. Puree the Beans: Once the beans are tender, drain them, reserving the cooking liquid. Puree the beans using a blender or sieve until smooth and creamy. Return the mixture to the saucepan, adding a bit of the cooking liquid to adjust the consistency if necessary.

5. Season the Dip: Stir in the salt, black pepper, dried mint, and molokhia (if using). Simmer the mixture on low heat until it thickens and bubbles gently, about 10-15 minutes.

6. Serve the Besarah: Transfer the creamy broad bean mixture to serving bowls. Top with a generous spoonful of the taleyeh (onion and garlic topping). Garnish with fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Offer spring onions, radishes, and lemon wedges on the side so guests can customize their servings.

   
   

Why This Recipe Works:

This Besarah recipe is a perfect balance of flavors—earthy broad beans, fragrant mint, and tangy lemon, all enhanced by the savory, rich onion and garlic garnish known as taleyeh. The longer you let it cook, the more the flavors develop, making it ideal for making ahead and serving later. The molokhia, an optional ingredient, adds an extra layer of Middle Eastern flair, but the dip is just as delicious without it.

The taleyeh garnish is the star of this dish, giving the Besarah a savory, caramelized finish that makes each bite irresistible. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or a special occasion, this dip is sure to be a conversation starter!

Tips for the Perfect Besarah:

• Soak the Beans Overnight: For best results, soak the broad beans overnight. This softens them and helps speed up the cooking process.

• Adjust the Texture: If you prefer a thinner consistency, simply add more water during the simmering process. For a thicker dip, simmer it longer to reduce the liquid.

• Garnishes: The garnishes are the perfect way to add extra freshness and crunch to the creamy Besarah. Don’t skip the lemon wedges—the fresh squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors beautifully.

  
  

Find Fresh Ingredients at Mona's Farm:

Ready to try making this Besarah dip at home? Visit Mona's Farm for high-quality dried broad beans, olive oil, fresh herbs, and all the pantry staples you need to make this delicious Middle Eastern dip. We’ve got everything you need to cook authentic dishes right from the comfort of your own kitchen!

Serve up this traditional Besarah Broad Bean Dip and let the deep, savory flavors take you straight to the heart of Middle Eastern cuisine. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to become a crowd favorite!