Maccu (also spelled “Maccu di Fave”) is a traditional Sicilian soup made primarily from dried fava beans (broad beans). It is one of the oldest dishes in Italian cuisine, with roots that date back to ancient Roman times. This dish is a staple of Sicilian peasant cooking, known for its simplicity and heartiness. Maccu is a thick, creamy soup, often flavored with wild fennel and seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper. In some variations, pasta or vegetables are added to enhance the texture and flavor. The dish is deeply comforting, reflecting the rustic and resourceful spirit of Sicilian cuisine.

How to Make Maccu

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried fava beans, soaked overnight
• 4 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried wild fennel or fennel seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
• Crusty bread for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fava Beans:

   • After soaking the fava beans overnight, drain and rinse them. Remove the outer skins if they haven’t already split during soaking.

2. Cook the Beans:

   • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Simmer the Soup:

   • Add the soaked fava beans to the pot along with the water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are very tender and start to break down.

4. Season and Puree:

   • Add the dried wild fennel or fennel seeds, and season the soup with salt and pepper. Use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash or puree the soup to your desired consistency. It should be thick and creamy.

5. Serve:

   • Ladle the Maccu into bowls, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread on the side if desired.

Estimated Nutritional Content Per Serving (1 Bowl):

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: ~250 kcal
• Protein: ~14g
• Carbohydrates: ~40g
• Fat: ~5g
• Fiber: ~12g

These values are estimates and can vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Maccu is a nutrient-dense dish, particularly high in fiber and protein, thanks to the fava beans. It’s also relatively low in fat, making it a healthy, filling, and satisfying meal. The fiber content is especially beneficial for digestion and overall health, while the protein supports muscle maintenance and repair