In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium heat. Sauté the onion till soft. Add garlic and cumin and sauté for 1 minute. Add the cooked fava beans, then add about 1 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium low, season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pan.

Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove the lid and simmer until the liquid has reduced a bit. Add the fresh lemon juice. Mash the mixture to desired consistency, using a spoon, potato masher or emersion blender.

Pour the ful into a serving bowl or platter. Drizzle with lots of olive oil, and add any optional toppings (diced tomato, onion slices, parsley or cilantro, paprika, hard boiled egg).

I like to serve ful with homemade sourdough (or soaked wheat) pita bread.