Name: Fava – Greek Yellow Split Peas Dip Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 200 grams (1 cup) fava beans (yellow split peas); 600 ml water or vegetable stock; 1 small onion (skinned); 1 medium-sized carrot (peeled); 1 bay leaf; ⅔ teaspoon coarse sea salt; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Baby capers (to garnish); Finely sliced red onion (to garnish); Diced tomatoes, pulp removed (to garnish); Lemon halves (to squeeze on top)

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Introduction

Fava is a traditional Greek yellow split pea dip that’s creamy, flavorful, and simple to make. Perfect as a healthy appetizer or side, this dish highlights the natural sweetness of yellow split peas combined with fresh toppings for a delightful experience.

This dish shows a white plate filled with smooth, creamy yellow hummus spread evenly in one thick layer. On top near the center, there are thin slices of light purple onion, small cubes of bright red tomato, and dark green capers scattered as garnish. On the right side of the plate, a piece of toasted brown bread is partially dipped into the hummus. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface, and there are lemon halves visible in the top right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

200 grams (1 cup) fava beans (yellow split peas)
600 ml water or vegetable stock
1 small onion (skinned)
1 medium-sized carrot (peeled)
1 bay leaf
⅔ teaspoon coarse sea salt
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Baby capers (for garnish)
Finely sliced red onion (for garnish)
Diced tomatoes, pulp removed (for garnish)
Lemon halves (to squeeze on top)

Instructions

Step 1: Add the fava beans, water or vegetable stock, onion, carrot, sea salt, and bay leaf to a small cooking pot.
Step 2: Simmer over low heat, covered, without stirring until the fava absorbs almost all of the liquid, about 40 to 50 minutes. Remove the carrot, onion, and bay leaf afterward.
Step 3: Mash the fava with a spoon or use an immersion blender until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Stir in the olive oil and lemon juice. If the mixture is too thick, add a small splash of water to reach desired consistency.
Step 5: Garnish with sliced red onions, baby capers, and diced tomatoes.
Step 6: Serve warm or at room temperature, drizzling extra lemon juice and olive oil on top if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use vegetable stock instead of water for a richer flavor.
Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin for a subtle twist.
Serve with warm pita bread or fresh vegetables for dipping.
For a creamier texture, blend the fava longer or add a bit more olive oil.

Storage

Store the fava dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture smooth.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a smooth, creamy yellow hummus spread forming a thick, even base layer. On top of the hummus, in the center, is a small pile of thin, pale purple onion slices scattered with small green capers and bright red diced tomatoes, adding color and texture contrast. To the right side of the plate, a toasted brown slice of bread partially dips into the hummus, showing its rough, crunchy texture. The plate is set on a white marbled surface with a small, bright yellow lemon wedge partially visible at the top edge of the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use dried yellow split peas instead of fava beans?

Yes, dried yellow split peas can be used as a substitute since fava beans and yellow split peas have similar textures and cooking times. Just make sure to rinse them well before cooking.

Is fava dip vegan?

Absolutely. This recipe uses only plant-based ingredients, making it naturally vegan and suitable for many dietary preferences.