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Fakes (Greek Lentil Soup – Simple & Authentic Recipe)

Fakes Brown Lentils Soup In Bowl
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If you’re looking for a Greek lentil soup recipe that’s simple, authentic and actually how it’s made at home, this is it.

Also known as fakes, this classic Greek lentil soup is a staple in Greek households especially during fasting periods, but it’s just as popular year-round for how easy and satisfying it is.

A lot of recipes online bulk it out with carrots, celery or potatoes. This one doesn’t.

This is how my Pappou Andoni made it; stripped back, simple and full of flavour. Just lentils, onion, garlic, tomato paste, olive oil and a splash of vinegar. No extras, no overcomplicating.

And honestly? It doesn’t need anything else.

JUMP TO RECIPE

What is Fakes?

Fakes is a traditional Greek lentil soup made with brown lentils, olive oil, onion, garlic and tomato.

It’s commonly eaten during Greek Orthodox fasting periods, but it’s really just a humble, everyday dish that’s stood the test of time because it works.

What makes it different from other lentil soups:

-No heavy spices
-No stock-heavy base
-Finished simply with olive oil and vinegar

And well, it’s my pappou’s recipe, so I’m a little bias. Ha!

Why This Fakes Lentil Soup Works

-Minimal ingredients, maximum flavour
-Authentic, family-style recipe
-Naturally vegan and fasting-friendly
-One pot, no complicated steps
-Better the next day

Tips for the Best Greek Lentil Soup

Keep It Simple

You don’t need carrots or celery. This version proves less is more.

Don’t Skip the First Boil

That quick boil and drain step removes bitterness and gives you a cleaner flavour.

Adjust the Garlic

My Pappou loved garlic. So much, he used to swallow a clove a day to keep the doctor away. Add more if you like a stronger flavour.

Let It Sit Before Serving

Resting the soup helps the flavours settle and improves texture.

Vinegar is Key

A splash at the end lifts everything. It might seem small, but it makes a big difference.

How to Serve Fakes Greek Lentil Soup

This Greek lentil soup is simple but filling. Serve it with:

-Crusty bread
-Olives


Perfect for:

-Fasting periods
-Weeknight dinners
-Meal prep

Fakes Brown Lentils Soup In Bowl

Fakes (Greek Lentil Soup)

This fakes lentil soup is a traditional Greek lentil soup made with simple ingredients like lentils, onion, garlic and olive oil. A comforting, easy and authentic recipe that’s naturally vegan and perfect for fasting or everyday meals.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup brown lentils
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic diced (or more if you love garlic)
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Vinegar for serving (optional)

Method
 

  1. Add lentils to a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil for 2 minutes. Drain and discard the water.
  2. In the same pot, heat olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
  3. Return the lentils to the pot, add 4 cups of water, stir in tomato paste, and mix well.
  4. Add the bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Cover and simmer on low for 30-40 minutes, checking to ensure there’s enough liquid.
  5. Turn off the heat and let it sit for 10 minutes.
  6. Serve with a splash of vinegar (optional) and crusty bread.

How to Store Fakes Greek Lentil Soup

Fridge: Up to 4 days
Freezer: Up to 3 months
Reheat: Add a splash of water and heat gently

FYI: It thickens as it sits which is totally normal.

FAQs: Fakes Greek Lentil Soup Recipe

1. What is fakes lentil soup?

Fakes is a traditional Greek lentil soup made with brown lentils, olive oil, onion, garlic and tomato.

2.Is Greek lentil soup vegan?

Yes, it’s naturally vegan and commonly eaten during Orthodox fasting.

3.Can I add vegetables like carrot or celery?

You can, but this version keeps it traditional to my pappou’s recipe and simple without them.

4.Why do you boil and drain lentils first?

It removes bitterness and improves the overall flavour.

5.What does vinegar do in lentil soup?

It brightens the flavour and balances the richness of the lentils and olive oil.

More Soup Recipes

Revithosoupa (Greek Chickpea Soup – Easy & Fasting Friendly)

Yuvarlakia (Greek Meatball Soup with Lemon Avgolemono)

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