Broad bean Pie a.k.a Koukopita

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Broad Bean/Fava bean pie a.k.a Koukopita

Broad bean pie a.k.a Koukopita in Corfu (Kouko) comes from the word koukia, which is the name for the broad beans in Greek and of course pita is pie therefore koukopita. By now you should have a small list with all the greek food words that I have given you. Broad beans are also called fava beans and it's an ancient legume that was consumed by the ancient Greeks and Romans. A very nutritious vegetable high in protein and in fiber. This a traditional recipe from my husband's village Zygos located  in the northern part of Corfu Island. A recipe that was given to me by my Aunt Voula who is a specialist when it comes to baking pies. This a no phyllo/crust pie and very simple to make.

WARNING: If you have any food allergies don't eat broad beans either cooked or raw because the effects could even be deadly. Some people have an enzyme deficiency in the blood called, favism, this is usually found in people of Mediterranean descent. People with this lack of enzyme, shouldn't eat the fava bean cooked or raw, unless their doctor says it's ok. Before cooking, you must give them a first boil!!! 

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cup milk
• 100 grams feta ( I used Kefalonian feta) 
• 3 eggs
• 1 teaspoon mint spice
• 1 tablespoon dill
• 2 - 3 fresh onion sprigs
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tablespoons Pillsbury self rising flour
• 1 tablespoon Melissa semolina
• 1/2 cup of Olive oil
• 1/3 teaspoon of chile pepper  ( depending how spicy you like it)

  

First, boil your broad beans and drain then add water, oil 1/4 cup, salt and pepper, boil until soft for about 10 -15 min. and drain.

  

They are ready and drained.

Place in a bowl and mash your broad beans. 

In a separate bowl add your milk, feta cheese, eggs, mint, dill, onion sprigs, garlic, flour, semolina salt & pepper to taste mix well. Add your mashed broad beans and mix well, sprinkle with olive oil and mix again.

Butter your pan  I used a round  9 * 2 inches pan, you can really use any pan.

Add your mixture

                                                         
                                 

                                             Bake at 375 degrees for about 30 - 45 minutes.

Let it cool and serve as a brunch or lunch dish! 

Kale Orexi another recipe from my kitchen to yours!!