Fakes Soupa (Greek Lentil Soup)

🧂 Ingredients

• 300 g Brown or green lentils(Rinsed and picked over for any small stones or debris.)
• 1 medium Yellow onion(Finely chopped.)
• 3 cloves Garlic(Minced.)
• 2 tbsp Tomato paste
• 2 Bay leaves
• 60 ml Olive oil(Extra virgin olive oil recommended for best flavor.)
• 1.5 liters Water or vegetable broth(Adjust for desired soup consistency.)
• to taste Salt
• to taste Black pepper
• for serving Red wine vinegar(Essential for authentic flavor.)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat (approximately 190°C / 375°F). Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

   ⏱️ 6-8 minutes
2. 2

   Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it darkens slightly in color. This helps to deepen its flavor. Add the rinsed lentils, bay leaves, and pour in the water or vegetable broth. Stir everything together.

   ⏱️ 3-4 minutes
3. 3

   Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer gently. Cook for 35-45 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup becomes too thick, add a little more water or broth.

   ⏱️ 35-45 minutes
4. 4

   Once the lentils are tender, remove the bay leaves. Season the soup generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Drizzle each serving with a generous amount of good quality extra virgin olive oil and a splash of red wine vinegar just before serving. The vinegar is crucial for the authentic taste.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes

💡 Pro Tips

• ✓The splash of red wine vinegar at the table is essential for the authentic Greek flavor of Fakes.
• ✓Traditionally, this soup is a common dish for Wednesday and Friday fasting days in the Greek Orthodox tradition.
• ✓While simple, this lentil soup is incredibly satisfying and nutritious.
• ✓For a smoother soup, you can blend a portion of it with an immersion blender before serving.

🔄 Variations

• Add a handful of fresh spinach or chopped kale during the last 10 minutes of simmering for added greens.
• Increase the garlic for a more pungent flavor.
• Add a chopped carrot or celery stalk along with the onion for extra depth of flavor.

🥗 Nutrition

Per serving