Greek Fava with Caramelized Onions and Fresh Herbs

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200g) yellow split peas 1 cup (200g) yellow split peas
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 2 onions, thinly sliced 2 onions, thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 32g, 6g
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the yellow split peas under cold water and drain.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, combine the split peas, vegetable broth, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the split peas are tender and easily mashed.
4. 4.
   While the split peas are cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally. This will take about 20-25 minutes.
5. 5.
   Once the split peas are cooked, remove the bay leaf and transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy.
6. 6.
   In the same skillet used for the onions, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and dried oregano, and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
7. 7.
   Pour the blended split pea mixture into the skillet with the garlic and oregano. Stir well to combine.
8. 8.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
9. 9.
   Transfer the Greek Fava to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley.
10. 10.
    Serve warm or at room temperature, with crusty bread or as a side dish to your favorite Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Yellow split peas — Make sure to rinse the split peas thoroughly before cooking to remove any impurities. This will help achieve a cleaner taste and smoother texture in the final dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smoky flavor, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke to the caramelized onions.
• If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can reserve some cooked split peas before blending and stir them back into the mixture after blending.
• Experiment with different fresh herbs such as mint or dill to add a unique twist to the dish.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Serving advice

Greek Fava is best served warm or at room temperature. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch of freshness. Serve with crusty bread or pita wedges for dipping.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation of Greek Fava, consider serving it in individual small bowls or ramekins. Sprinkle some additional fresh herbs on top for a pop of color. Serve alongside a platter of fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese for a complete Mediterranean-inspired spread.