Traditional Greek Lentil Soup (Fakes)

This recipe instantly transports me back to my childhood: Greek Lentil Soup, known in Greece as Fakes.  Growing up in a Greek household, lentil soup appeared on our table regularly, especially during the cooler months. Gosh, I remember putting up a fight because I didn’t want to eat it.  As a child, I never liked them and refused to eat them. But as I got older, my tastes changed, and I started to love this soup.  Today, I still find myself returning to this recipe whenever I want something wholesome, affordable, and nourishing.

One of the reasons Greek Lentil Soup remains so popular is its incredible simplicity. Unlike many soups that rely on cream or complicated ingredients. Lentils are enhanced by vegetables, herbs, and a generous amount of olive oil. The result is a rich and satisfying soup that feels hearty enough to enjoy as a complete meal.  Remember, I have mentioned this I don’t even know how many times: when cooking Greek recipes, the olive oil should be of the highest quality.

Lentils have long been an important part of the Mediterranean diet, valued for both their nutritional benefits and affordability. They are packed with plant-based protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals (iron), making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy healthier meals without sacrificing flavor. Combined with vegetables and olive oil, they create a nutritious dish that has stood the test of time.

Some Greek families prefer adding tomato paste for a richer flavor, like me, for example. Others keep it simple with just lentils, onion, garlic, and bay leaves. Many also enjoy serving Fakes with a splash of vinegar, which adds a bright, tangy note that beautifully balances the earthy lentils. A slice of crusty bread, a few olives, and perhaps some feta cheese on the side transform this humble soup into a complete Mediterranean feast.  For me, Greek Lentil Soup represents everything I love about traditional Greek cooking.

Whether you’re discovering Greek cuisine for the first time or revisiting a loved family classic, this traditional Greek Lentil Soup is a recipe worth keeping.  Serve it with fresh bread, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, and a little vinegar on the side for the authentic Greek experience. One spoonful is enough to understand why generations of Greek families continue to love this timeless recipe.  And it does taste even better the next day heehehhehe

Wishing everyone a wonderful morning/afternoon/evening!

Print

Traditional Greek Lentil Soup (Fakes)

Traditional Greek Fakes are made with brown lentils, onion, and bay leaf, and this soup is considered one of Greece's most loved dishes. Traditionally, Served with olives, crusty bread, and feta cheese.

Course Main Course

Cuisine Greek, Mediterranean

Keyword brown lentils, Greek Lentil Soup, Soup season, traditional soup

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes minutes

Servings 6 servings

Author foodzesty

Ingredients

• 2 cups brown lentils
• 1 celery stalk finely diced.
• 1 red onion finely chopped
• 1 ½ tbsp tomato paste
• 1 carrot large - chopped
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 ½ liters vegetable broth or water
• 2 garlic cloves whole
• ½ cup olive oil
• salt
• pepper
• red pepper flakes optional
• vinegar optional

Instructions

• Place the 2 cups brown lentils into a colander, and rinse them under cold running water.
• Place a large pot on medium heat and add half of ½ cup olive oil. Add 1 celery stalk, 1 red onion, and 1 carrot. Sauté for a few minutes.
• Toss in the 2 cups brown lentils, 1 ½ tbsp tomato paste, 2 bay leaves, 2 garlic cloves, 1 ½ liters vegetable broth or water. Lastly, add the 2 garlic cloves and the leftover olive oil. Season with salt, pepper and red pepper flakes.
• Let the lentils simmer for about 40 minutes until they soften.
• Serve with a sprinkle of vinegar.

KALI SAS OREXI!! 🙂