Wikipedia Article About Fava Bean on Wikipedia This tan, rather flat bean resembles a very large Lima Bean. It comes in a large pod that, unless very young, is inedible. Fava beans can be purchased dried, cooked in cans and, infrequently, fresh. if you find fresh fava beans, choose those with pods that aren't bulging with beans, which indicates age. Fava beans have a very tough skin, which should be removed by Blanching before cooking. Fava beans means literally and actually broad beans. Used extensively in Egyptian homes and street food. It is known as Ful beans or Ful madammas.