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Get your free copy28 October 2013, 09:35 AM
- A staple of the British diet since its discovery in the Iron Age, fava beans (also known as broad beans) have recently fallen out of favour due to the rising popularity of meat and dairy
However, Hodmedod are spearheading its revival, drawing to consumers’ attention its benefits to health, bees, the environment and UK farmers.
Nick Saltmarsh, founder of the Norfolk-based company said, “Fava beans are one of Britain’s oldest crops but we’ve almost completely forgotten about them in recent centuries. Once you’ve tried them there’s no looking back as they’re so easy to use in lots of delicious dishes from the Mediterranean and Middle East, as well as traditional British recipes. Bees and farmers like them too.”
He is also promoting the benefit farmers can pull from the crop, citing added fertility and aid to crop rotations amongst its strengths. Its ease of preparation and versatility in cooking are also plus points, with high protein and fibre strengthening its health food status.
