Fava bean dip

I loved Greece.  All of it.  Especially the food.  Not going to lie there is a huge difference when food tastes like it hasted been genetically modified or full of preservatives.  Simple, pedestrian food and I ate it up.  Greek salads, tzatziki and especially the fava bean dip.  I could not get enough of it.  Shari and I dined at the same lunch spot in Naxos for two days.  One day we sampled the octopus (exquisite) and the second day we chose a beet salad (equally delicious).  And, again, simple.

Due to that inspiration, I am attempting a fava bean dip for my yoga happy hour tomorrow night.  I did not realize that you can use yellow split peas instead of fava beans.  I headed to Sprout's Market as they have a great bulk food and spice section.  For everything else, I search out Kroger, Trader Joe's and Natural Grocers.  Primarily, I shop at Trader Joe's.  I like their objectives, employees and always have a good experience when shopping.  It can be somewhat limited on some things; hence, why I shop at Kroger and Natural Grocers.  At any rate, I did not find yellow split peas yesterday at Sprout's.  Natural Grocer's has a superior bulk aisle of dried goods and spices.

I used one recipe and will borrow from another.  A few ingredients--red onion, garlic, olive oil, water with the peas as a base.  Immersion blender to combine the ingredients.  Topping with capers, scallions, parsley and some paprika or cumin.  I have yet to decide.  In addition, I am making the crowd favorite, Kerp dip.  It is Tom's mother's recipe and has yet to disappoint my students.  I think each time I make it it varies a little.  I like to experiment with the amount of bacon and scallions.  I think I minimize the mayo since I do not love mayo, but it is a necessary component in this dish.  

I bought tzatziki from the Greek market.  I could have tried to make my own, but I know that I enjoy their offering.  Another time.  I found some Greek wine that Shari and I enjoyed in Naxos and Santorini.  All, in all, at great Sunday.  I watched basketball and my team broke my heart again.  I think it was especially difficult this year.  They came back ensuring that it would not be a blow out.  They had a good strategy on how to get to overtime.  They could utilize the time out to work the clock.  They did that but then it appeared they got ahead of the game.  Instead of defending the play, they watched it happen with 3 seconds left.  I watched in awe at the conclusion of the game.  It was unbelievable. I realize that things happen and of course, that was not their intent to lost like that.  Yet, they did and it was heartbreaking.  Kudos to St. John's for crushing 3's all game and advancing to the next round.  

For the happy hour, I will offer the tzatziki dip, Kerp dip, fava bean dip and a greek salad.  Some additional vegetables and an assortment of crackers.  Truly, I believe it will be a nice homage to my trip to Greece and way to honor the Spring Equinox.  Lighter fare, white wine and community.

Stay safe out there.  Protect your energy.  Stand up for what you believe it and share kindness.  Thank you!