Greek lentil soup, or Fakies, is a warm, hearty dish that embodies the essence of simple, authentic Greek cooking. Made with just a few humble ingredients—lentils, onions, garlic, olive oil, tomatoes, and a splash of vinegar —this soup is rich in flavour and nutrition, offering comfort in every spoonful.
The lentils, naturally packed with protein and fiber, create a thick and satisfying base, while the olive oil adds a touch of richness, characteristic of Greek cuisine. The onions and garlic bring depth to the soup, and the tomatoes, often in their simplest form—either fresh or canned—add a subtle sweetness, and a little tang from the splash of vinegar to finish the dish.
This soup is not just delicious, but incredibly nourishing, providing a perfect balance of complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and plant-based protein. It’s vegan, perfect for the Lenten periods, filling, and packed with antioxidants, making it both a healthy choice and a family favourite. Whether served as a light lunch or a hearty dinner, Greek lentil soup is the kind of dish that’s both comforting and energising, proving that sometimes, the best meals are the simplest ones.
FAKIES | Greek Lentil Soup
Mary PolitisIngredients
- 500 g green lentils sorted and washed
- water for pre-boiling lentils
- 1/2 cup Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 brown onion chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic chopped
- 2 L water
- 400 g crushed tomato
- 4 bay leaves
- 1 stock cube optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Red wine vinegar to serve
Instructions
- Sort through the lentils, removing any small rocks or blackened lentils. Add to a large pot with plenty of water and boil for 20 minutes or until the lentils just begin to soften.
- Drain the lentils and set aside.
- Over medium-high heat, add the extra virgin olive oil, onion, and garlic to the same pot. Sauté for a few minutes then add the drained lentils back in. Pour in the water, tomato, bay leaves, stock cube (optional) and boil for approximately 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- The lentils should become tender and soft and the liquid will slightly thicken.
- Taste to adjust seasoning and serve with an extra drizzle of olive oil and splash of vinegar.
Hi Mary,
The recipe is missing the quantity and type of lentils needed for the soup.
Kind regards
Lauren