Ah, springtime in Malta, a time when nature’s bounty unfurls in all its verdant glory. But amidst the blossoms and burgeoning greenery, there’s a humble hero quietly claiming its place on the Maltese culinary stage, the ‘ful’ bean, also known as broad beans or fava beans. These popular legumes are now in season, though be warned, they won’t stick around for long!

Renowned for its versatility, the ful bean is a staple ingredient in Maltese cuisine, starring in beloved classics like kusksu soup, hearty pies, and the irresistible bigilla (be sure to try this during your visit to Malta). But today, let’s venture beyond tradition and explore a delectable twist: a broad bean and goat’s cheese dip fit for a Mother’s Day feast or any springtime gathering.

First things first , be sure to procure the freshest ful beans you can find, look out for local veg hawkers. Once you’ve got your hands on these verdant gems, it’s time to embark on a culinary adventure. Joining forces with creamy goat’s cheese, pungent garlic, and the golden elixir of local olive oil, these beans are poised to dazzle your taste buds.

Sure, double-shelling the beans may require a tad more effort, but trust me, the payoff is unparalleled. And for those craving an extra dose of local flair, consider swapping out the French-style goat’s cheese for a blend of ġbejniet and irkotta – a nod to Malta’s rich dairy heritage.

Now, let’s dive into the recipe from Friends of the Earth Malta:

Cheese and Bean Dip

Ingredients:

· 250g broad beans, (double-shelled)

· 100g soft goat’s cheese (French style)

· One clove garlic, finely chopped

· 100ml olive oil

· Salt & pepper to taste

Method:

1. Begin by liberating the broad beans from their pods, then steam or boil them until they achieve a vibrant, verdant hue. This preliminary step enhances their flavour and facilitates the removal of the inner shell.

2. Once the beans are tender and primed for greatness, it’s time to assemble your ingredients. The double-shelled beans, velvety goat’s cheese, aromatic garlic, a generous glug of olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper go into the food processor.

3. Blitz it all together until you achieve a luxuriously creamy texture reminiscent of hummus. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your palate, adding a drizzle more of olive oil or a pinch more salt and pepper if desired.

4. Voilà! Your ful bean and goat’s cheese dip is ready to dazzle. Pair it with crisp Galletti crackers for a taste sensation that’s sure to delight.

So, as the season for ful beans unfolds in all its fleeting splendour, seize the moment to savour the essence of Maltese cuisine in every delectable bite. Whether enjoyed as a dip, a soup, or a hearty pie filling, these humble legumes are a celebration of Malta’s springtime bounty.