Why would a dip called “fava” not be made from fava beans? Language is a funny thing, especially when trying to transpose a different one with your own. Quite simply, the Greek word fava refers to what we know as yellow split peas in English. If you wanted the broad, flat legumes instead, those would be koukia; another beloved staple across the Greek islands.

Peas and Thank You

After my initial confusion, the attraction was immediate. Yellow split peas have long been a favorite for cozy soups and stews, and I’m certainly no stranger to creamy bean dips the world over. Continuing life without a suitable recipe under my belt was unthinkable.

Certified Inauthentic

Don’t call the authenticity police on me. I’m well aware that this is far from a “legitimate” fava dip, as the genuine legumes are highly regulated to maintain their distinctive terroir. As a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) food, only yellow split peas that are grow in Santorini can legally be labeled as such. I’ve heard tales that Santorini fava are sweeter and have a smoother texture than other split peas thanks to the mineral-rich volcanic soil of the island, though I’m not fortunate enough to personally confirm nor deny such a statement. I can promise you, however, than regular old, unprestigious split peas make a damn fine dip. You could really rock the boat and use green split peas, too. Just don’t blame me if officials find out and you’re banned from entering Greece at a later date.

Split Decision

Maybe the golden color is playing tricks on my mind, but I swear each velvety dollop, dip, and spoonful has an almost buttery finish. Topping with capers and diced red onion is essential to create the perfect bite, lending a briny, salt, and sharp highlight to what might otherwise fall a little flat. Wrapped in soft, warm pita bread or scooped up with crisp veggies, even this large batch will go fast. It could definitely give the average hummus a run for its money.

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Yield: Makes 3 1/2 Cups (7 - 14 Servings)

Greek Fava Dip

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Don't let the name fool you: Greek fava has nothing to do with what we know as "fava beans" in English. This silky, savory dip transforms humble yellow split peas into something unexpectedly luxurious, finished with plenty of olive oil, sharp red onion, and briny capers for the perfect bite.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes

Additional Time 15 minutes

Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1/3 Cup Olive Oil, Divided
• 1 Large Red Onion, Finely Diced, Divided
• 4 Cloves Garlic, Minced
• 1 1/4 Cups Yellow Split Peas
• 1 Tablespoon Fresh Thyme or 1 Teaspoon Dried Thyme
• 1 Bay Leaf
• 3 Cups Water
• 3 Tablespoons Lemon Juice
• 1 Teaspoon Salt
• 1/2 Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
• 1 Tablespoon Capers, Drained
• 1 Teaspoon Lemon Zest
• 1/2 Teaspoon Sumac (Optional)
• Parsley or Microgreens (Optional)

Instructions

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of the olive oil. Once shimmering, add most of the onion, reserving about 2 tablespoons for the topping, followed by the garlic. Sauté until softened and aromatic; about 5 minutes.
   
2. Add the split peas, thyme, bay leaf, and water. Cover, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, simmering for 30 - 45 minutes, or until peas are very tender. Let cool for at least 15 minutes.
   
3. Remove and discard the bay leaf. Carefully transfer the mixture to your blender, or use an immersion blender to puree it right in the pot. Add the lemon juice, salt, pepper, and remaining olive oil. Blend until completely silky smooth.
   
4. Transfer the dip to a large, shallow bowl. Top with the reserved red onion, capers, lemon zest, sumac, and fresh herbs or microgreens, if desired. Enjoy warm!

Recommended Products

Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through the link. I have experience with all of these companies and I recommend them because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions I make if you decide to buy something through my links.

• 
  Shiloh Farms, Organic Yellow Split Peas, 15 oz (425 g)
• 
  Frontier Co-op, Sumac Ground , 2.1 oz (59 g)
• 
  La Tourangelle, 100% Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, 25.4 fl oz (750 ml)

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

14

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 85Total Fat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 189mgCarbohydrates: 6gFiber: 2gSugar: 1gProtein: 2g

All nutritional information presented within this site are intended for informational purposes only. I am not a certified nutritionist and any nutritional information on BitterSweetBlog.com should only be used as a general guideline. This information is provided as a courtesy and there is no guarantee that the information will be completely accurate. Even though I try to provide accurate nutritional information to the best of my ability, these figures should still be considered estimations.