Fava Santorini

Fava in the Greek food sense has nothing to do with fava beans. Rather, it’s a dip made from yellow split peas.

Making fava is easy -a ll one has to do is simmer the fava until the liquid has been absorbed and then give it whiz in the processor with your favourite flavourings.

If you’ve visited the island of Santorini, you’ve had this dip. In fact, many tavernas throughout Greece now offer this popular dish. My favourite is to serve it with grilled octopus on top.

Santorini Fava

• 1 cup yellow split peas
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• 6 oil-packed sun-dried tomato halves, drained
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 3 large garlic cloves
• 2 shallots, chopped
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried Greek oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• sea salt and freshly ground pepper
• capers or caper leaves for garnish
• chopped onion

© 2020, Peter Minaki. All rights reserved.