Fava beans are quite versatile. They can be eaten whole (pod and all) in late spring when young and tender. Later in the summer when their pods grow large and fibrous the beans can popped out, peeled and cooked. Then in the fall when the pods are yellow and dry they can be harvested dried completely and used through the winter as any other dried bean. These beans do require a bit of work (the skins around the mature beans have to be removed) but their delicate flavour and bright green colour are well worth the work. These are delicious when cooked, pureed and used as a spread or an accompaniment to meat dishes.

To store fava bean pods, place them in a plastic bag in the crisper section of the refrigerator right away. The pods will keep for five to seven days in the refrigerator. Store cooked and peeled fava beans in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to five days at most.