A simple and delicious Persian snack made with boiled fava beans, seasoned with salt, vinegar, and spices - perfect for cold winter nights.
Baghali Pokhteh is a beloved Persian street food, especially popular during cold seasons and winter nights. Sold by street vendors in Iran, this comforting dish consists of boiled fava beans served with salt, vinegar, and powdered Golpar (Persian hogweed). The origins of this dish trace back centuries, as fava beans have been a staple in Middle Eastern and Persian cuisine for their high protein and fiber content. Known for its nutritional benefits and warming properties, Baghali Pokhteh is a common snack enjoyed at home, in bazaars, or at football matches in Iran.
Ingredients
500g fresh or dried fava beans (Baghali)
1 tbsp salt (for cooking water)
1 tbsp white vinegar (or fresh lemon juice, to serve)
1 tsp Golpar (Persian hogweed powder) (optional but traditional)
½ tsp black pepper
Extra salt, to taste
Directions
Prepare the Fava Beans:
If using fresh fava beans, rinse them well. If using dried fava beans, soak them in water for 6-8 hours or overnight, then drain.
Boil the Beans:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tbsp salt. Add the fava beans and boil for 30 minutes (or until tender). If using dried beans, this may take 45-60 minutes. Drain the beans and transfer them to a serving bowl.
Season & Serve:
Sprinkle with Golpar (Persian hogweed powder), salt, and black pepper. Drizzle with vinegar or serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Enjoy:
Serve warm as a snack or appetizer, peeling the fava beans before eating if desired.
Recipe Note
Tips & Variations
If Golpar is unavailable, try a mix of ground cumin and sumac for a similar flavor.
For a richer taste, drizzle with melted butter or olive oil before serving.
Make it spicy by adding a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper.
