By eatmundo · July 8, 2026
Same ingredients, elsewhere in the world
47 matchesDishes from other countries' kitchens, made from the same core ingredients as Fakes Soupa: Traditional Greek Lentil Soup. The percentage is the share of ingredients the two recipes have in common.
Lentejas a la Riojana (Riojan-Style Lentils)In Spain · same ingredients70%
Rabo de Toro (Oxtail Stew)In Spain · same ingredients70%
Loubieh Bi ZeitIn Lebanon · same ingredients63%
Fakes Soupa is a humble yet incredibly nutritious and flavorful staple of Greek cuisine, offering warmth and comfort in every spoonful. This hearty brown lentil soup is slow-cooked with aromatic vegetables like onion, garlic, and carrot, seasoned with bay leaf, and finished with a bright splash of red wine vinegar and generous olive oil.
According to eatmundo's ingredient comparison, the closest dish to Fakes Soupa from another cuisine is Lentejas a la Riojana (Spain): the two share 70% of their ingredients.
Ingredients
tick what you already have - the rest goes on your shopping listHow to Make It
- 1
Rinse 250g (about 1.5 cups) of brown or green lentils thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear. Transfer them to a large pot, cover with 1.5 liters of fresh cold water, and bring to a boil. Boil for 5 minutes, then drain and rinse the lentils again. This step removes impurities and makes them more digestible.
- 2
In the same pot, heat 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped large onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 finely diced carrot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
- 3
Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and 1 bay leaf. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the tomato paste darkens slightly and becomes fragrant. This deepens the flavor of the soup base.
- 4
Add the rinsed lentils back to the pot. Pour in 1.2 liters (about 5 cups) of fresh water or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 40-50 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 5
Remove the bay leaf. Season the soup with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Stir in 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar and an additional 2 tablespoons of good quality extra virgin olive oil. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed; the vinegar adds a crucial brightness.
- 6
Ladle the Fakes Soupa into bowls. For an authentic touch, serve with a further drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of dried oregano, alongside crusty bread and perhaps some Kalamata olives or pickled vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fakes?
Fakes is a traditional Greek lentil soup made with lentils, vegetables, garlic, and vinegar. It is a staple plant-based dish commonly consumed as a nutritious main course throughout the year.
Do I need to soak the lentils before cooking?
For Fakes Soupa, traditional brown or green lentils usually don't require soaking, but a quick 5-minute boil and rinse (as described) helps remove impurities and makes them more digestible, reducing cooking time slightly.
What kind of lentils are best for Fakes Soupa?
Brown or green lentils (like Puy lentils) are ideal for Fakes Soupa as they hold their shape well during cooking and offer a robust, earthy flavor. Avoid red lentils, which tend to break down and become mushy.
How can I make my Fakes Soupa thicker or thinner?
For a thicker soup, mash a portion of the cooked lentils against the side of the pot with a spoon. For a thinner consistency, simply add more hot water or vegetable broth until desired thickness is reached.
What are common toppings or accompaniments for Fakes Soupa?
Fakes Soupa is traditionally served with a drizzle of fresh extra virgin olive oil, a splash of red wine vinegar, and often accompanied by crusty bread, Kalamata olives, or even a side of pickled vegetables.
