Step 1
To a medium pot, add the fava beans, potato, and 5 cups of water and produce to a boil. Flip the warmth to low and simmer, utilizing a big spoon or high quality mesh strainer to skim any foam from the floor, till the beans may be simply smashed between your fingers, 45–55 minutes. Take away from the warmth.
Step 2
In the meantime, deliver a big pot of salted water to a boil over excessive warmth. Add the chicory, flip the warmth to medium, and prepare dinner till wilted and tender, about quarter-hour. Drain and switch to a medium bowl, then return the empty pot to the range. Flip the warmth to medium-high, add half of the oil, and when sizzling, add the tomatoes, bay leaf, garlic, and chile flakes, if utilizing. Cook dinner, stirring continuously, till the tomatoes soften, 2–4 minutes. Add the chicory and proceed cooking, stirring continuously, till very tender, about 5 minutes. Season to style with salt and put aside.
Step 3
Pressure the fava bean combination and return it to the pot. Utilizing a potato masher, mash to a rough, chunky paste. Stir within the remaining oil and season to style with salt.