Definitions for "Fava Beans"
This bean variety can be found in health-food and Middle Eastern stores in a dehydrated or canned form. Fresh Fava Beans can sometimes be found in supermarkets during the summer season.
Legume that is grown throughout Italy.  Although Fava beans more resemble a lima bean, they are a member of the pea family.  Fava beans are sometimes called a broad bean.  Available dried, canned and infrequently fresh.  Fresh fava beans have a tough outer skin which should be removed before cooking.
Also referred to as broad or horse beans. Fava beans are tan, flat beans, which resemble lima beans. However the favas have a very strong flavor (quite bitter at times). Their skins are very tough and must be removed by blanching before you cook them. Fava beans are popular in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean recipes. They are usually sold dried and can, sometimes, be purchased in cans in stores, which specialize in a Middle Eastern clientele. They are sold fresh in specialty produce stores, but it takes a lot of work to get to the fresh beans.