Hearty Greek Lentil Soup (Fakes)
A classic Greek lentil soup, hearty and full of flavor, made with simple ingredients.
- Prep10 min
- Cook45 min
- Total55 min
- DifficultyEasy
- Servings8
This traditional Greek lentil soup, known as fakes, is a staple in Greek households, especially during the colder months. It's a simple, nourishing dish that's packed with protein and fiber.
Made with green lentils, aromatic vegetables, and a touch of olive oil, this soup is both comforting and satisfying. Serve it with a drizzle of olive oil, a splash of red wine vinegar, and crusty bread for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Servings
Converted amounts are rounded.
Method
- Rinse the lentils under cold water and drain well.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and smashed garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until softened.
- Add the diced carrots and celery and continue to sauté for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the lentils, smashed tomatoes, and vegetable stock. Bring the soup to a boil and let it boil for 1-2 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 60-90 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Check the lentils occasionally and add a little water or stock if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
- Serve the lentil soup in bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of chili pepper flakes, a drizzle of olive oil, and a splash of red wine vinegar if desired. Accompany with warm crusty bread.
💡 Tips
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the lentils against the side of the pot before serving.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender.
- Leftover soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and tastes even better the next day.
Inspired by a recipe from The Greek Foodie