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a serving of Fava a traditional Greek yellow split pea puree

Step by step Instructions to make Greek Fava, our Yellow Split Pea Dip

Embark on a culinary journey to Greece with this Authentic Greek Fava recipe. A staple in Greek cuisine, this dish is renowned for its creamy texture and rich flavors, derived from the simplicity of yellow split peas, onions, and garlic, enhanced with the zest of lemon and the richness of olive oil.
This vegetarian delight is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a testament to the rich heritage of Greek cooking. Perfect as an appetizer or a side dish, Greek Fava is a versatile recipe that brings the essence of the Mediterranean to your table.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
0 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Appetizer, Dip, Meze
Cuisine Greek
Servings 4
Calories 124 kcal

Equipment

  • Pot: Needed for boiling the peas and onions.
  • Blender or Food Processor: Essential for pureeing the cooked ingredients into a smooth texture.
  • Knife For chopping onions and garlic.
  • Cutting board To chop onions and garlic safely and efficiently.

Ingredients
 
 

  • 1 cup Yellow Split Peas The heart of the dish imparting a creamy texture upon cooking.
  • 2 Onions chopped: They add depth and flavor to the fava.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Essential for the unique taste.
  • 1 Lemon juice: Brings a refreshing, zesty note.
  • 1 tbsp A Greek cooking staple Olive Oil: it enhances the richness of the dish.
  • 1 pinch Salt and Pepper For seasoning to your preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika paprika
  • 1 teaspoon oregano oregano
  • Optional: feta cheese for serving feta

Instructions
 

Preparing the Ingredients:

  • Rinse the Peas: Begin by rinsing the yellow split peas under cold water until the water runs clear. This ensures any dust or debris is removed.

Cooking Process:

  • Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large pot, heat a splash of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped red onions and a pinch of salt. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Simmer the Peas: Add the rinsed yellow split peas to the pot along with enough water to cover them by a couple of inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. As it cooks, skim off any foam that forms on the surface.
  • Seasoning and Herbs: Add a bay leaf, paprika, and oregano for extra flavor. If you're aiming for a Santorini-style dish, remember that Santorini is known to produce some of the best and most flavorful yellow split peas, so using Santorini fava beans can make your dish more authentic.

Blending and Finishing:

  • Check the Peas: After about 25-30 minutes, the peas should be soft and the mixture thick. Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
  • Puree the Mixture: Using an immersion blender, puree the mixture until smooth. If the fava is too thick, you can add a little water to reach your desired consistency. Remember, fava will thicken as it cools.
  • Add Lemon and Olive Oil: Stir in the lemon juice and a generous drizzle of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving:

  • Garnish and Serve: Transfer the fava to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of paprika. If desired, top with crumbled feta cheese and serve with warm pita bread on the side.

Notes

Greek Fava is more than just a recipe; it's a celebration of traditional Greek flavors and simplicity in cooking. Whether you're a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this recipe guides you through each step, ensuring a delectable result.
The blending of soft-cooked peas with aromatic onions, garlic, and lemon juice, all smoothed out with olive oil, results in a dish that's both comforting and invigorating. Serve this at your next gathering or as a part of your family meal, and watch as it becomes an instant favorite​​​​​​​​​​.
 

Nutrition

Calories: 124kcalCarbohydrates: 19gProtein: 5gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 14mgPotassium: 319mgFiber: 6gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 267IUVitamin C: 19mgCalcium: 38mgIron: 1mg
Keyword Authentic Greek Fava, Creamy Pea Puree, Greek Dip Recipe, Greek Fava, Healthy Greek Appetizer, Mediterranean Cuisine, Simple Greek Cooking, Traditional Greek Dish, Vegetarian Greek Recipe, Yellow Split Peas Puree
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