Athenian Fava Mash

Introduction

Athenian Fava Mash, a staple in Greek cuisine, is a delightful dish that hails from the beautiful island of Santorini. Made primarily with yellow split peas, it is often confused with fava beans; however, these yellow split peas offer a distinct flavor and texture. Historically, this dish has been a cherished part of the Greek diet, appreciated for its simplicity and nutrient richness, making it both a comfort food and a hearty appetizer.

Ingredients

• Yellow Split Peas - 2 cups
• Onion - 1 large, chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil - 1/4 cup
• Lemon - 1, juiced
• Bay Leaf - 1
• Salt - to taste
• Pepper - to taste
• Water - 4 cups
• Parsley - for garnish
• Olives - for serving

Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it is important to prepare all ingredients meticulously. Begin by rinsing the yellow split peas under cold water to remove any impurities. Chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves. Once these are ready, set them aside in separate bowls for easy access while cooking.

Cooking Process

1. In a large pot, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, usually taking around 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute, ensuring it becomes fragrant without burning.
3. Introduce the rinsed yellow split peas into the pot, coating them with the sautéed onions and garlic.
4. Add the water and bay leaf. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 40-50 minutes, or until the yellow split peas are soft and tender.
6. During cooking, stir occasionally and skim off any foam that forms on the surface.
7. Check the consistency and adjust by adding more water if necessary.
8. Once cooked, remove the bay leaf and blend the mixture with a hand blender until it reaches a smooth consistency. You may also use a potato masher if you prefer a chunkier texture.
9. Stir in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
10. Let the mash cool for a few minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Try serving the Athenian Fava Mash warm or at room temperature. Drizzle some additional extra virgin olive oil on top for enhanced flavor. Garnish with chopped parsley and accompany with olives to bring out the traditional Greek culinary aroma. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or pita for a complete experience. For an authentic touch, consider serving it alongside a glass of ouzo.

Cooking Tips

• Ensure the yellow split peas are fresh to expedite the cooking process and achieve a creamy texture.
• If you prefer a smokier flavor, consider adding roasted garlic instead of fresh.
• Allowing the mash to sit for a few hours helps the flavors to marry well, making it even more palatable.

With these steps, you will surely enjoy a fantastic dish that resonates with the vibrant and rich history of Greek cuisine.