Fava (Greek Yellow Split Pea Spread)

This recipe serves:  6

1 1/2 cups yellow split peas
2 quarts water
1 large onion, coarsely chopped
3 cloves garlic, peeled
5 tablespoons olive oil
salt and pepper


1 red or white onion, quartered and sliced
3 tablespoons virgin olive oil
2 lemons, cut into wedges
1. Wash the peas and put them in a saucepan. Cover with warm water and bring to a boil. Skim the froth and when the water is clear, add the onion, garlic and olive oil. Simmer uncovered for about 2 hours until the peas are very soft. Check from time to time to make sure that the water has not evaporated. Let cool.

2. Mash well with a fork and season to taste. This mixture may thicken considerably, so just before serving you may need to beat in extra water to thin it.

3. To serve, mound fava spread on a plate, make a slight depression in the center with a spoon and add the slivered raw onions and olive oil. Surround with the lemon wedges so each person can squeeze the amount of lemon desired on the spread. Serve with warmed pita bread.

Serving Size: 2 tablespoons

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