Fava dip

Fava, the dip that has nothing to do with fava beans, yet has everything to do with split peas. This healthy and simple dish is probably the closest thing Greeks have to hummus. It only has a few ingredients yet is packed with flavour.

Below is the simple recipe of how to make this great dip.

Ingredients

• 500g of split peas
• 1-2 large red onions
• 2-3 cloves of garlic
• 1 litre of water
• 1/2 lemon
• 3-4 tbs of olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Step 1

Empty your split peas in to a sieve and rinse in cold water until the water turns clear. Next, in a pot heat up 1 litre of water (on a low heat).

Step 2

Chop up your onions and garlic. Place a medium pot on the stove and add 3-4 tbs of olive oil on medium to high heat. Once the oil is hot throw the onions in. Coat the onions in the olive oil and turn the heat down to medium and let the onions sauté for about 10 minutes or until they become translucent. While the onions are cooking mince your garlic.

Step 3

Just as the onions are becoming translucent (around the 7-8 minute mark) throw in the minced garlic. Let that cook for about 45 seconds. Season with some salt and pepper. Once seasoned throw in the split peas. Cook the split peas for about 2-3 minute or until you can smell the split peas have started to roast. Add in the litre of warm water to the pot and mix everything together. Season if necessary.

Step 4

Place a lid on the pot and leave to simmer at a medium heat for 40 minutes, or until the mixture has absorbed all of the and and has turned in to a yellowish mush (it looks a bit like baby food at this point). If your mixture is not ready, and the water has been absorbed, add 1/2 cup of  water to the mixture until it becomes the right consistency (mush!).

Step 5

Take the mixture off the heat, and while hot, blend the mixture togher adding in lemon juice to taste and a splash of olive oil to taste. Keep blending, adding lemon and olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. When this has happened,  you are ready to enjoy this healthy dip!

Novice ~ 60 minutes ~ Serves 8

Pro tips

1. Add some carrot to the sautéing onions, this will create a slightly sweeter tasting dip
2. Add some thyme as garnish when serving
3. Best served warm / hot with greek pita bread and some raw red onion.