Breadsticks with Fava Bean Puree and Bacon

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PRESENTATION

Hey, if you’re on the hunt for a really tasty appetizer, look no further. These breadsticks with fava bean purée and pancetta are a must-try. Super popular in Southern Italy, they’re just the thing when you want something different but, you know, still easy to handle. These long, slender sfilati are topped with a creamy blend of fava beans—cooked down in vegetable broth until they’re super smooth. Really, it's the best. The purée offers a mild, delicate flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispy pancetta. Wrapping each breadstick with a thin piece of pancetta adds a salty, rich finish—a combination you'll often find in regions like Puglia or Calabria. And those areas? Known for their simple yet flavorful dishes, pretty much. They make great use of local ingredients like fava beans and pancetta.

Thing is, these snacks make any gathering feel extra special—even if they only take a few minutes to whip up. The breadsticks recipe lets you choose between homemade or store-bought sfilati. Pretty simple, right? That golden crust offers a nice crunch, especially when paired with the soft, moist fava bean dip and the pancetta on top. Plus, in some southern towns, you might find a touch of pepper or a drizzle of olive oil added. But honestly, keeping it simple really allows the main flavors to shine. The balance of the tender fava purée and the crispy pancetta? So so good. Keeps everyone coming back for more.

So, here’s the thing: serving these as an Italian appetizer or at a casual buffet adds a festive touch. Whether you call it a fava bean dip or spread, this mix of flavors and textures is always a hit. Perfect for when you want something a bit special without a lot of fuss. Next time you're planning a gathering, consider bringing a taste of Southern Italy to your table with these delicious breadsticks—seriously good!

INGREDIENTS
Ingredients for 12 Breadsticks
Olive breadsticks 12
Pancetta 12 - thin slices
Fava beans 6 oz (170 g) - shelled and cleaned
Vegetable broth ¾ cup (200 ml)
Shallot 1
Extra virgin olive oil to taste
Fine salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Preparation

How to prepare Breadsticks with Fava Bean Puree and Bacon

To prepare the breadsticks with fava bean puree and bacon, start by shelling the fava beans 1 and removing the tougher outer skin 2. Chop the shallot 3,

sauté it for a few minutes with some extra virgin olive oil in a non-stick pan 4, then add the fava beans 5 and the vegetable broth 6 and let them simmer for about 30 minutes.

Once cooked, salt and pepper the fava beans to taste 7. Now blend the fava beans with an immersion blender or a mixer to obtain a smooth puree 8. At this point, start preparing the breadsticks. Spread the fava bean puree on one breadstick 9. Spread the puree, being careful to leave a couple of inches free at one end, so you can hold the breadstick.

Once the breadstick is spread with fava bean puree, wrap it with a slice of bacon 10, still leaving one end of the breadstick free 11. Now repeat the operation with all the breadsticks. Your breadsticks with fava bean puree and bacon are ready, you just need to serve them! 12

Storage

The breadsticks with fava bean puree and bacon can be stored covered with plastic wrap in a cool, dry place for up to one day. If you want, you can prepare the fava bean puree in advance, storing it in the refrigerator in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap for 1-2 days.

Tip

The breadsticks with fava bean puree and bacon can be flavored with a sprig of fresh fennel.

For the translation of some texts, artificial intelligence tools may have been used.