What are Fava Beans?

Saro grows fava beans in his garden at home with Tembi in LA. Fava beans have important symbolism in Sicily: "The bean is associated with resurrection, renewal, sustenance" (Loc 706). The beans are an important connection to Saro's home and culture. After his death, they remain "the last connection to Saro’s culinary life, his culture, the garden of his construction" (Lov 706). Tembi vows to plant fava beans every year in his memory and, on the first anniversary of his death, endeavors to cook them in a traditional Sicilian fashion as a way of keeping his memorial and convivial spirit alive.