Name: Fakés Soupa
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups dried brown or green lentils, rinsed; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 stalks celery, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 6 cups water or vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (plus more for serving); Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, fresh parsley for garnish

Fakés Soupa is a classic Greek lentil soup that brings together earthy lentils, aromatic vegetables, and the bold, bright punch of red wine vinegar. It’s a simple, nourishing dish I turn to when I want something warming and deeply satisfying. Whether it’s a chilly evening or I’m just craving a healthy one-pot meal, this soup never disappoints.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 1/2 cups dried brown or green lentils, rinsed

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 carrots, diced

2 stalks celery, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup olive oil

6 cups water or vegetable broth

1 bay leaf

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (plus more for serving)

Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

I start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Then I add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery, sautéing them for 5 to 7 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant.

Next, I stir in the garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute to bring out their flavor.

I add the lentils, water or broth, bay leaf, oregano, salt, and pepper. Once it comes to a boil, I reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30 to 40 minutes until the lentils are tender.

I remove the bay leaf and stir in the red wine vinegar. I always taste and adjust the seasoning at this point—it’s what brings the flavors together.

When serving, I like to drizzle a bit of extra olive oil and add a splash more vinegar. A sprinkle of parsley or red pepper flakes gives it a nice final touch.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 hearty servings.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Calories: About 260 kcal per serving

Variations

Sometimes I swap green lentils for brown if I want a slightly firmer texture.

If I’m in the mood for extra heat, I add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking.

A handful of chopped spinach stirred in at the end gives it extra color and nutrients.

For a thicker texture, I blend a cup of the soup and stir it back in.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. When reheating, I add a splash of water or broth since the soup tends to thicken in the fridge. It also freezes well—up to 3 months. I just thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove when I’m ready to enjoy it again.

FAQs

What type of lentils should I use for Fakés Soupa?

I usually use brown or green lentils because they hold their shape well while becoming tender. Red lentils would break down too much for this soup’s hearty texture.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, I can make it in a slow cooker by sautéing the vegetables first, then adding everything to the slow cooker and cooking on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Is red wine vinegar necessary?

Red wine vinegar gives Fakés Soupa its signature tang. I wouldn’t skip it, but if I’m out, a splash of lemon juice is a good substitute.

Can I add protein like sausage or chicken?

Traditionally, this is a vegan dish, but I sometimes add cooked sausage or shredded chicken if I want to boost the protein even more.

How do I keep the lentils from getting mushy?

I make sure not to overcook them—once they’re tender but not falling apart (around 30–40 minutes), I take the soup off the heat. Green lentils hold up a bit better if I’m worried about texture.

Conclusion

Fakés Soupa is everything I want in a comforting, healthy meal. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and leaves me feeling full and satisfied. Whether I serve it with crusty bread or enjoy it on its own, this soup is always a go-to in my kitchen. I keep a batch in the freezer for quick lunches and cozy dinners—it’s a Mediterranean classic that never fails.

Recipe:

Fakés Soupa

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegan

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Description

Fakés Soupa is a classic Greek lentil soup made with earthy lentils, aromatic vegetables, olive oil, and red wine vinegar. It’s a hearty, vegan, one-pot meal bursting with Mediterranean flavor.