Fava Santorini is a traditional Greek dish made from yellow split peas, and it’s a popular appetizer or side dish. Here’s a basic recipe for Fava Santorini along with its ingredients:
Ingredients:
- Yellow Split Peas: 1 cup
- Water: 3 cups
- Onions: 1 large, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced
- Olive Oil: 1/2 cup (extra virgin olive oil is preferred)
- Lemon Juice: 2-3 tablespoons (adjust to taste)
- Salt: to taste
- Pepper: to taste
- Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley, extra olive oil, olives, cherry tomatoes
Instructions:
- Rinse the split peas: Start by rinsing the yellow split peas under cold water.
- Cook the split peas: In a large pot, combine the split peas with enough water to cover them by about an inch. Add the bay leaf and bring to a boil. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface. Reduce the heat to low and simmer until the peas are very soft and starting to break down. This may take about 45 minutes to an hour. Add more water if needed during the cooking process.
- Prepare the onion and garlic: While the split peas are cooking, sauté the chopped onion in olive oil over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking until fragrant.
- Combine the peas and onion mixture: Once the split peas are cooked, remove the bay leaf and add the onion and garlic mixture to the pot. Stir well and continue to cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Blend the mixture: Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, you can add some water or vegetable broth to achieve the desired consistency.
- Season and finish: Season the Fava with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste. Be sure to adjust the seasoning according to your preferences. The lemon juice adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the richness of the peas.
- Serve: Once the Fava has reached your desired consistency and flavor, transfer it to a serving dish. Drizzle with additional olive oil, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve at room temperature or chilled.
Fava Santorini recipe Other way:
- Rinse the Split Peas: Before cooking, rinse the yellow split peas under cold water.
- Cook the Split Peas: In a large pot, combine the split peas and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the peas are soft and mushy. This usually takes about 30-40 minutes.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the cooked split peas. Mix well.
- Blend the Mixture: Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor to blend until smooth. Add more water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
- Season: Season the blended mixture with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Transfer the Fava Santorini to a serving dish. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and garnish with fresh parsley, olives, and cherry tomatoes if desired.
- Chill (Optional): Fava Santorini can be served warm or chilled. If you prefer it chilled, refrigerate for a few hours before serving.
Fava Santorini is often enjoyed as a dip with bread or as a side dish. It’s a delicious and nutritious option that showcases the unique flavors of Santorini’s yellow split peas.
Enjoy your Fava Santorini!
