🇬🇷 Greece · Food
Fava: Creamy Greek Yellow Split Pea Purée
By eatmundo · July 8, 2026
Fava is a cherished Greek spread or dip made from yellow split peas, slow-cooked until tender and then puréed with olive oil, lemon, and aromatics. This vibrant, earthy dish offers a creamy texture and a delicately savory flavor, often garnished with capers and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Rinse 250 g of yellow split peas thoroughly under cold running water. Transfer them to a medium pot and cover with 1 liter of cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- 2
Once boiling, skim off any foam that rises to the surface. Add 1 chopped medium onion and 2 whole garlic cloves to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the split peas are very tender and easily mashable.
- 3
Check the peas periodically and add a little more hot water if the mixture becomes too thick, ensuring they remain submerged and don't stick to the bottom of the pot. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
- 4
Remove the pot from the heat and discard the whole garlic cloves. Using an immersion blender or a food processor, blend the split pea mixture until it forms a smooth, creamy purée. If it's too thick, add a little hot water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
- 5
Stir in 60 ml of olive oil and the juice of 1 lemon. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed; the lemon should provide a bright lift without being overpowering.
- 6
To serve, spread the warm Fava onto a shallow plate. Drizzle generously with an additional 40 ml of fresh olive oil, sprinkle with capers, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or a few slices of raw red onion. Enjoy as an appetizer or side dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific type of split peas is best for an authentic Greek Fava purée?+
For traditional Greek Fava, use dried yellow split peas (sárkes fáva), distinct from green split peas or lentils. They yield the characteristic creamy texture and mild flavor crucial for this dish.
How long should I cook the yellow split peas to achieve the desired creamy, smooth consistency?+
Cook the split peas for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until they are very tender and easily mashed. They should nearly dissolve into a smooth purée after blending.
Is pre-soaking the yellow split peas necessary, and what's a common mistake to avoid for a smooth purée?+
Soaking yellow split peas is not usually required, as they cook relatively quickly. A common mistake is not blending long enough; ensure to blend thoroughly until completely smooth to avoid a grainy texture.
What are the key elements to properly garnish and serve Fava to highlight its traditional taste?+
Serve Fava warm or at room temperature, generously drizzled with high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, capers, and chopped fresh parsley for authentic flavor and brightness.
Mundo Match
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