Fakes Soupa
Gathering Ingredients (Serves 4–6):
- Lentils: 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed
Aromatics:
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large carrot, diced
- Optional: 1 celery stalk, diced
- Tomatoes: 2–3 fresh tomatoes, chopped or 1 can (400 g) diced tomatoes
Herbs & Spices:
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Liquids:
- 3–4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (or water)
Finishing Touch:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Optional: 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Method:
Sauté Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant.
Build the Base:
Add the diced carrot (and celery, if using) and cook for 2–3 minutes. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and bay leaf.
Add Lentils and Broth:
Mix in the lentils and dried oregano, then pour in the broth (or water) until the ingredients are just covered. Season with salt and pepper.
Simmer Gently:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the flavours have melded.
Finishing Touches:
Remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning. For a bright finish, stir in red wine vinegar or lemon juice.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm. It’s usually served with fresh bread, pieces of feta and olive, it makes for a hearty meal.
Hearthkeeper’s Secret
“In every humble pot of Fakes Soupa lies a secret gift: a reminder that even the simplest ingredients, when shared with care, have the power to warm hearts and bring communities together. Stir with gratitude and let the spirit of the lentils infuse your life with hope and unity.”
May this ancient Greek recipe and its accompanying folk tale inspire you to cherish the small gifts of nature and the enduring strength of community. Enjoy your Fakes Soupa, and may every spoonful remind you that even in the harshest winters, there is warmth to be found in sharing.
