Not Hummus, Not Lentils… It’s Greek Fava!
Creamy, velvety, and packed with rich flavor, Greek fava is a beloved traditional dish made from yellow split peas. Slow-cooked with onions, garlic, thyme, and a touch of lemon, it’s finished with a drizzle of olive oil and sweet caramelized onions. Perfect as a dip, appetizer, or side dish, this wholesome puree is both comforting and elegant. A true taste of Greece!
Ingredients
- 500 g 1.1 lb yellow split peas, well rinsed
- 1 red onion roughly chopped
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 150 ml ⅔ cup olive oil, plus extra for cooking
- 850 ml 3.5 cups chicken stock (or water for a traditional version)
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme or 1 tsp dried thyme
- Freshly cracked white pepper to taste
- ½ tsp beef bouillon or Butter Than Bouillon – optional but recommended
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Salt to taste
For Serving
- Caramelized red onions
- Extra olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
Sauté the Onions & Garlic
- Heat a pot on low-medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Add the chopped red onion and let it sweat for 5-8 minutes until translucent (not browned).
- Push the onions aside and add the minced garlic, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cook the Split Peas
- Pour in the 150 ml olive oil and let it warm slightly.
- Add the rinsed split peas and stir well, letting them fry for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken stock and stir.
- Add the thyme, white pepper, and beef bouillon (if using).
- Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 45-50 minutes until the peas are soft.
Caramelize the Onions (While Peas Cook)
- In a separate pan, cook sliced red onions in olive oil on low heat with a pinch of salt.
- Stir occasionally and let them caramelize slowly for 30-40 minutes until dark and sweet.
Blend & Season the Fava
- Once the split peas are tender, remove from heat.
- Stir in lemon juice and salt to taste.
- Use an immersion blender to puree until smooth (or transfer to a food processor).
- Let it cool slightly—it will thicken as it rests.
Serve
- Drizzle with olive oil and top with caramelized onions.
- Enjoy as an appetizer, side dish, or main course (great with grilled sausage or bread).