Calories in Fava Beans: Nutrition Facts & Serving Sizes
Per 1 cup (150g)
Per 100g
Source: USDA FoodData Central, SR Legacy, March 2026.
Fava beans (also called broad beans) are dried legumes packed with protein, fiber, and key micronutrients. Per 100g dry, fava beans deliver 341 calories, 26.1g of protein, 58.3g of carbs, and a remarkable 25g of fiber. A 1 cup serving provides 39.2g of protein, 37.5g of fiber, and over 1,000mg of potassium. These macros make fava beans one of the most protein-dense and fiber-dense plant foods available. The iron content hits 6.7mg per 100g and folate reaches 423mcg, covering well over 100% of the daily requirement. Fava beans have a creamy texture and earthy flavor when cooked, commonly used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. They are an outstanding plant-based protein source for muscle building.
Nutrition Highlights
Calories by Serving Size
| Serving | Cal | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 tbsp (9g) | 32.1 | 2.5g | 5.5g | 0.1g | 2.4g |
| 1 cup (150g) | 511.5 | 39.2g | 87.5g | 2.3g | 37.5g |
| 100g | 341 | 26.1g | 58.3g | 1.5g | 25g |
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Full Nutrition Facts (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 341 | 17% |
| Protein | 26.1g | 52% |
| Total Fat | 1.5g | 2% |
| Saturated Fat | 0.3g | 2% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 58.3g | 21% |
| Dietary Fiber | 25g | 89% |
| Sugars | 5.7g | 11% |
| Sodium | 13mg | 1% |
Vitamins & Minerals (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Saturated Fat | 0.3g | 0% |
| Calcium | 103mg | 8% |
| Iron | 6.7mg | 37% |
| Potassium | 1062mg | 23% |
| Vitamin A | 3mcg | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 1.4mg | 2% |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.4mg | 24% |
| Magnesium | 192mg | 46% |
| Phosphorus | 421mg | 34% |
| Zinc | 3.1mg | 28% |
| Selenium | 8.2mcg | 15% |
| Folate | 423mcg | 106% |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.6mg | 50% |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.3mg | 23% |
| Niacin (B3) | 2.8mg | 18% |
% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA reference).
Health Benefits of Fava Beans
Fava beans are one of the most nutritionally dense legumes you can eat. With 26.1g of protein per 100g dry, they rival many animal protein sources and significantly outperform most other beans and legumes. For plant-based athletes or anyone adding variety to their protein sources, fava beans are a serious option.
The fiber content at 25g per 100g is exceptional. High fiber intake is consistently linked to improved satiety, reduced caloric intake over time, better blood sugar regulation, and a healthier gut microbiome. A single cup of cooked fava beans contributes nearly all of your daily fiber target.
Folate at 423mcg per 100g is one of the highest concentrations in any food. Folate is essential for DNA synthesis, cell repair, and supporting protein metabolism. It is especially relevant post-workout when cells are undergoing repair and remodeling.
Magnesium at 192mg per 100g is outstanding. Magnesium supports over 300 enzymatic reactions including muscle contraction, protein synthesis, and energy production. Most active adults fall short on magnesium, and fava beans are one of the best dietary solutions.
Potassium at 1,062mg per 100g is a standout figure that supports electrolyte balance, blood pressure regulation, and prevents muscle cramps during intense training.
Dietary Considerations
Fava beans are naturally vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free. The calorie count of 341 per 100g is for dried beans. Cooked fava beans are considerably lower in calories per serving. They are not keto-compatible due to the high carbohydrate content, though the net carbs are reduced significantly by the 25g of fiber. Fava beans contain vicine and convicine, compounds that can cause hemolytic anemia in individuals with G6PD deficiency (favism), a genetic condition more common in people of Mediterranean, African, and Middle Eastern descent. Those with this condition must avoid fava beans entirely.
Daily Intake (100g)
100g of fava beans provides 17% of a 2,000-calorie diet.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories in fava beans?
Dried fava beans contain 341 calories per 100g. Cooked fava beans are much lower, typically around 110 to 130 calories per 100g depending on preparation. A 1 cup dry serving has about 512 calories.
Are fava beans good for weight loss?
Cooked fava beans are excellent for weight loss. The high protein and fiber content promotes satiety, and the cooked calorie density is moderate. The 25g of fiber per 100g dry is one of the highest of any food, keeping hunger controlled effectively.
How much protein in fava beans?
Fava beans have 26.1g of protein per 100g dry. A 1 cup dry serving provides 39.2g of protein. This is comparable to animal protein sources and makes fava beans one of the best plant-based protein options available.
Are fava beans keto-friendly?
No. Fava beans are high in carbohydrates at 58.3g per 100g dry. Even accounting for the 25g of fiber, the net carbs are too high for a ketogenic diet. They are better suited to moderate-carb or high-carb eating plans.
What are the risks of eating fava beans?
Individuals with G6PD deficiency (a genetic condition also called favism) can experience dangerous hemolytic anemia after eating fava beans. This condition is most common in people with Mediterranean, African, or Middle Eastern ancestry. If you are unsure, consult a doctor before eating fava beans regularly.
How do fava beans compare to chickpeas?
Fava beans have higher protein (26.1g vs 19g per 100g dry), more fiber (25g vs 17g), and more folate (423mcg vs 172mcg) than chickpeas. Chickpeas have a milder flavor and are more widely available. Both are excellent plant protein sources.
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