Fava beans are the dried beans of the Vicia faba species of the legume family. They're the same species as the fresh or frozen green broad beans more familiar in British cooking but fava beans are the fully mature dried fruit of smaller seeded varieties.

Fava beans are rich in fiber. Fiber is a nutrient that helps with digestion, maintaining healthy glucose levels, and preventing cholesterol buildup.

Broad beans are very high in protein and energy as in any other beans and lentils. 100 g of beans carry 341 calories per 100 g. Besides, they also compose plentiful of health-benefiting antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and plant sterols

Unshelled fava beans will keep in the refrigerator in a plastic bag or paper sack for about 10 days. Dried shelled fava beans can be stored in a cool, dry place for 10 to 12 months.