Fava beans have a long tradition of cultivation in Old World agriculture, being among the most ancient plants in cultivation and also among the easiest to grow. Their pods are thick with a cottony interior encapsulating 2 to 7 large lemon lime-colored beans that are in turn tender, with a sweet, mild grassy flavor. As a matter of fact, fava beans are incredibly nutritious and an excellent source of soluble fiber, protein, folate, manganese, copper and several other micronutrients. In addition, they are loaded with folate, a nutrient that promotes proper brain and spinal cord development in infants.