The Ultimate Guide to Cooking Delicious Split Peas

Let's face it, split peas might not be the most glamorous ingredient in the pantry, but they're a culinary powerhouse waiting to be unleashed. These little guys are packed with flavor, versatility, and nutritional punch, ready to transform your everyday meals into something truly delicious. I've been a split pea enthusiast for years, ever since I was a kid and my mum would whip up her legendary pea soup. The aroma of that creamy, earthy broth filled the house, and I'd eagerly wait for a bowl of pure comfort. Since then, I've delved into the world of split peas, exploring everything from traditional Indian dals to hearty vegan stews.This guide is your key to unlocking the potential of split peas. From choosing the perfect variety to mastering the art of cooking and exploring a world of recipes, we'll cover it all. So, grab your apron, brew a cuppa, and let's get cooking!

(Part 1) Choosing Your Split Peas

The Pea Powerhouse: Types of Split Peas

Before we dive into the cooking, let's talk about the different types of split peas. Each variety brings a unique flavour and texture to the table, making them ideal for different dishes.

• Green Split Peas: The most common type, green split peas offer a slightly earthy, subtly sweet flavour. They hold their shape well after cooking, making them perfect for hearty soups, stews, and even salads. Think of them as the workhorse of the split pea family.
• Yellow Split Peas: These peas are a bit more delicate and tend to break down during cooking, resulting in a creamy texture. They're a fantastic choice for velvety soups, dips, and even as a base for veggie burgers. Their smooth consistency makes them ideal for blending into sauces and dips.
• black-eyed peas: While not technically split peas, black-eyed peas belong to the same legume family and are often used in similar ways. They boast a slightly nutty flavour and a firm texture, making them great for salads, stews, and even as a hearty addition to rice dishes.

Going for the Gold (or Green, or Black-Eyed): Picking the Best Peas

Once you've decided on your type, it's time to pick the perfect peas. Look for plump, firm peas that are free of any discolouration or damage. If you can, opt for organic peas, as they often have a more intense flavour.

Storage Solutions: Keeping Your Peas Happy

Store your split peas in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They'll stay fresh for up to a year, ready for your next culinary adventure.

(Part 2) Mastering the Art of Cooking Split Peas

The Soak: A Gentle Awakening for Your Peas

Soaking split peas isn't strictly necessary, but it can work wonders. Soaking allows the peas to cook more evenly and quickly, resulting in a smoother texture. If you're short on time, you can skip this step, but I highly recommend giving your peas a good soak for optimal results.To soak, simply combine the peas with enough water to cover them by a couple of inches. Let them sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight. Once they're plumped up, drain the soaking water before cooking.

The Perfect Boil: Bringing Your Peas to Life

Now that your peas are ready to go, it's time to get cooking! Add them to a pot with plenty of fresh water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 45 minutes, or until the peas are tender. You'll know they're ready when they easily mash between your fingers.

Seasoning with Love: The Finishing Touches

This is where the fun begins! Seasoning your split pea dishes is like adding the finishing touches to a masterpiece. Experiment with salt, pepper, herbs, spices, and even vegetables to create a symphony of flavours. Here are some of my favourite combinations:

• Classic Comfort: A simple combination of salt, pepper, and a bay leaf adds a timeless, comforting flavour. It's a classic for a reason.
• Earthy and Spicy: For a warm and comforting flavour, try adding cumin, coriander, turmeric, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. This combination will awaken your taste buds with warmth and depth.
• Fresh and Bright: A squeeze of lemon juice, a handful of chopped fresh herbs (like parsley, dill, or mint), and a dash of garlic powder create a light and refreshing taste. It's a perfect way to add a touch of zing to your dish.

Blending the Magic: Creating a Creamy Texture

If you're aiming for a smooth, velvety texture, you can blend the cooked peas with a little of the cooking liquid. This will create a rich, creamy consistency perfect for soups, dips, and spreads.

(Part 3) Delicious Split pea recipes: From Soup to side dishes

1. Split Pea Soup: The Classic comfort food

No split pea guide is complete without a classic soup recipe. This one is a personal favourite, with a creamy, satisfying flavour and a touch of warmth that's perfect for a chilly evening.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup green split peas, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil until softened. This will create a flavourful base for your soup.
2. Add the garlic, bay leaf, salt, and pepper and cook for 1 minute more. Let the aromas of the spices infuse the oil.
3. Stir in the split peas and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 45 minutes, or until the peas are tender. Let the flavours meld and the peas soften to perfection.
4. Remove the bay leaf. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth (or transfer to a regular blender in batches). This step creates the velvety texture that makes this soup so irresistible.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley. A sprinkle of parsley adds a touch of freshness and vibrancy to the finished soup.

2. Spicy Split Pea Curry: A Taste of India

This curry is bursting with flavour and spice, offering a delicious way to add a touch of global cuisine to your dinner table. It's a vibrant and comforting dish that's sure to please even the most discerning palates.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup yellow split peas, rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. This will create a fragrant base for the curry.
2. Add the cumin seeds, coriander seeds, turmeric powder, and red pepper flakes and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This step allows the spices to release their aromas and infuse the dish with vibrant flavour.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and split peas. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 45 minutes, or until the peas are tender. Let the flavours mingle and the peas soften to perfection.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro. The fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness and completes the dish.

3. Creamy Split Pea Dip: A Party Pleaser

This creamy dip is perfect for parties or a casual get-together. It's incredibly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. I love serving it with warm pita bread, fresh crudités, or even as a filling for wraps.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup yellow split peas, rinsed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the split peas according to the instructions above. Drain and set aside. Let the peas cool slightly before proceeding.
2. In a food processor, combine the cooked peas, garlic, parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. This creates a luxuriously creamy texture.
3. Serve with warm pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables. Get creative with your dipping choices!

4. Split Pea Salad: A Light and Refreshing Side Dish

For a lighter and healthier side dish, try this split pea salad. It's packed with nutrients and flavour, making it a perfect accompaniment to grilled fish, chicken, or even a vegetarian main course.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup green split peas, rinsed
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the split peas according to the instructions above. Drain and let cool completely. This ensures the peas have a firm texture for the salad.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked peas, red onion, and dill. Mix gently to combine the ingredients.
3. Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour over the peas and toss to coat. This creates a light and refreshing dressing for the salad.
4. Serve chilled. The salad is best enjoyed chilled for a refreshing and revitalizing taste.

(Part 4) Split Pea Side Dishes: Elevate Your Mains

1. Roasted Split Peas: A Crunchy Delight

For a crispy and flavourful side dish, roast your split peas. They're surprisingly delicious, offering a satisfying crunch and a touch of nuttiness that complements a variety of main courses. This is my go-to side dish for roasted vegetables, fish, or chicken.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup green split peas, rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the peas from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. In a large bowl, toss the split peas with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will coat the peas evenly and ensure they roast to a crispy perfection.
3. Spread the peas in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. This will allow the peas to roast evenly and achieve that desirable crispy texture.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on the peas to avoid over-roasting.

2. Split Pea Fritters: A Crispy and Savoury Treat

These fritters are a fun and easy way to use up leftover cooked split peas. They're packed with flavour and perfect for a light lunch or snack. You can even serve them as a starter with a dipping sauce of your choice.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked green split peas
• 1/2 cup grated carrot
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked split peas, carrot, onion, parsley, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
2. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of the pea mixture into the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. These fritters cook quickly, so keep a watchful eye on them.
3. Serve hot, with your favourite dipping sauce. Get creative with your sauces! I like a simple yogurt dip or a tangy tomato sauce.

3. Split Pea Salad with Lemon and Dill: A Bright and Refreshing Side

This salad is a light and refreshing way to enjoy split peas. It's perfect for warmer days and complements grilled fish or chicken beautifully. The combination of lemon and dill adds a burst of freshness and brightness.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup green split peas, rinsed
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the split peas according to the instructions above. Drain and let cool completely. This ensures the peas have a firm texture for the salad.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked peas, dill, and red onion. Mix gently to combine the ingredients.
3. Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour over the peas and toss to coat. This creates a light and refreshing dressing for the salad.
4. Serve chilled. The salad is best enjoyed chilled for a refreshing and revitalizing taste.

(Part 5) The Split Pea Revolution: Transforming Everyday Meals

1. Veggie Burgers: A Plant-Based Delight

Split peas are a fantastic base for veggie burgers. They add a satisfying texture and a mild, earthy flavour that blends beautifully with other ingredients. This recipe is a great option for a plant-based meal, packed with protein and flavour. You can easily customize the flavour by adding different herbs, spices, and vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked yellow split peas
• 1/2 cup grated carrot
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup rolled oats
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked split peas, carrot, onion, parsley, oats, olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well until combined. You may need to add a little water to help bind the mixture.
2. Form the mixture into patties. You should get about 4-6 patties. The mixture will be a bit sticky, so you can use a bit of olive oil to help you form the patties.
3. Cook the patties in a frying pan with a little olive oil over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through. The patties should be cooked through and have a lovely golden crust.
4. Serve the patties on buns with your favourite toppings. Get creative with your toppings! I like to use lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of vegan mayo.

2. Split Pea Pasta: A Hearty and Healthy Twist

This is a quick and easy way to add a protein boost to your pasta dishes. Use any type of split peas, and feel free to get creative with your flavour combinations. This dish is a great way to use up leftover cooked split peas and add a healthy twist to your pasta night.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked green split peas
• 1/2 cup cooked pasta (any shape)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine the cooked split peas, pasta, basil, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Toss to coat. Mix gently to combine the ingredients and ensure everything is coated with the dressing.
2. Serve warm. This dish is best served immediately after it's prepared for the best flavour and texture.

3. Split Pea Risotto: A Creamy and Comforting Dish

This risotto is a delicious and hearty alternative to the traditional rice version. The creamy texture and earthy flavour of split peas make for a truly satisfying meal. This recipe is a great way to impress your friends and family with a unique and delicious risotto.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup yellow split peas, rinsed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the split peas according to the instructions above. Drain and set aside. Let the peas cool slightly before proceeding.
2. In a large saucepan, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened, about 5 minutes. This will create a fragrant base for the risotto.
3. Add the white wine and simmer until reduced by half, about 2 minutes. This will allow the alcohol to cook off and leave a concentrated flavour.
4. Gradually add the vegetable broth, 1 cup at a time, stirring constantly until the liquid is absorbed before adding the next cup. This slow and steady addition of broth helps create the creamy texture of risotto.
5. Once the broth is fully absorbed, stir in the cooked split peas and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the risotto is creamy. The risotto should have a creamy, porridge-like consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley. The fresh parsley adds a touch of freshness and vibrancy to the finished risotto.

(Part 6) Beyond the Basics: Exploring Split Pea Variations

1. Smoked Split Pea Soup: A Smoky and Satisfying Delight

This soup is packed with a smoky flavour, perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly evening. It's a great way to add depth and complexity to your split pea soup. I love using smoked paprika for that smoky kick, but you can also use smoked ham hock or smoked bacon for a bolder flavour.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup green split peas, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil until softened. This will create a flavourful base for your soup.
2. Add the garlic, smoked paprika, bay leaf, salt, and pepper and cook for 1 minute more. Let the aromas of the spices infuse the oil.
3. Stir in the split peas and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 45 minutes, or until the peas are tender. Let the flavours meld and the peas soften to perfection.
4. Remove the bay leaf. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth (or transfer to a regular blender in batches). This step creates the velvety texture that makes this soup so irresistible.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley. A sprinkle of parsley adds a touch of freshness and vibrancy to the finished soup.

2. Indian Spiced Split Pea Soup: A Flavorful and Aromatic Delight

This soup is a vibrant and aromatic take on the classic split pea soup. It’s packed with warmth and flavour, thanks to the blend of Indian spices. It’s a great way to experience a taste of India right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup yellow split peas, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. This will create a fragrant base for the soup.
2. Add the cumin seeds, coriander seeds, turmeric powder, and red pepper flakes and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This step allows the spices to release their aromas and infuse the dish with vibrant flavour.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and split peas. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 45 minutes, or until the peas are tender. Let the flavours mingle and the peas soften to perfection.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro. The fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness and completes the dish.

3. Curried Split Pea Salad: A Flavorful and Versatile Salad

This salad is a great way to add a touch of spice and flavour to your meal. It's perfect for lunch or dinner, and it's also a great option for potlucks and picnics. You can customize the flavour by using different curry powders or adding other vegetables, like chopped cucumber, bell pepper, or cherry tomatoes.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup green split peas, rinsed
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the split peas according to the instructions above. Drain and let cool completely. This ensures the peas have a firm texture for the salad.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked peas, cilantro, and red onion. Mix gently to combine the ingredients.
3. Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Pour over the peas and toss to coat. This creates a light and refreshing dressing for the salad.
4. Serve chilled. The salad is best enjoyed chilled for a refreshing and revitalizing taste.

(Part 7) Mastering the Art of Split Pea Perfection

1. The Texture Game: Achieving the Perfect Consistency

The texture of your split peas is essential for creating the desired outcome for your dish. Here's a guide to help you achieve the perfect texture for your recipe:

Texture	cooking time	Uses
Slightly Firm	30-40 minutes	Salads, side dishes, veggie burgers
Tender	45-60 minutes	Soups, stews, dips
Very Tender	60-75 minutes	Creamy soups, dips, spreads

2. Flavor Boosters: Enriching Your Split Pea Dishes

There are countless ways to enhance the flavour of your split pea creations. Here are some tips and tricks to elevate your dishes:

• Add Aromatics: Sautéing onions, garlic, ginger, or other aromatics in olive oil before adding the split peas will create a depth of flavour. The aromatics will infuse the oil with their unique flavours, creating a base for a delicious dish.
• Use Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices, like cumin, coriander, turmeric, curry powder, bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, or parsley. The combinations are endless, so get creative!
• Add Vegetables: Include carrots, celery, potatoes, or other vegetables for added texture and flavour. This will not only add depth to the flavour, but also increase the nutritional value of the dish.
• Finish with a Squeeze of Lemon: A touch of lemon juice will brighten the flavour of your split pea dish. It adds a touch of acidity that balances the earthy sweetness of the peas.
• Top with a Dollop of Yogurt or Crème Fra??che: These dairy additions add a creamy touch and a touch of tanginess. They're a luxurious and flavourful way to finish your dish.

(Part 8) Split Pea Storage and Leftovers: Making the Most of Your Peas

1. Storing Cooked Split Peas: Keeping Your Leftovers Fresh

Cooked split peas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the fridge. This way, you can enjoy the deliciousness of your split pea creation for a few days.

2. Freezing Split Peas: For Long-Term Storage

If you want to store your cooked split peas for longer, you can freeze them. Simply transfer them to freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. Frozen split peas can last for up to 3 months. This is a great way to have a quick and easy meal on hand when you're short on time.

3. Leftover Magic: Transforming Your Split Pea Creations

Don’t let your leftover split peas go to waste! There are plenty of ways to repurpose them and create new culinary adventures. Try making a:

• Split Pea Salad: Combine leftover cooked split peas with chopped vegetables, herbs, and a vinaigrette. This is a great way to use leftover peas in a refreshing and flavourful salad.
• Split Pea Fritters: Mix leftover cooked split peas with flour, eggs, and spices, then fry them until golden brown and crispy. These are a delicious and satisfying snack or appetizer.
• Split Pea Soup with a Twist: Add leftover cooked split peas to a pot of broth and simmer with your favourite vegetables and spices. This is a great way to create a new and exciting soup using your leftovers.

FAQs: Your Split Pea Questions Answered

1. Are split peas good for you?

Absolutely! Split peas are a powerhouse of nutrition. They're an excellent source of protein, fiber, and iron, which are essential for maintaining a healthy body. They're also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including folate, thiamin, and potassium. Adding split peas to your diet can help you feel fuller for longer, support your digestion, and boost your energy levels.

2. Can I use dried peas instead of split peas?

Yes, you can use dried peas, but they will take longer to cook. They also need to be soaked overnight before cooking. If you're using dried peas, be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

3. How do I make sure my split pea soup is smooth and creamy?

Using yellow split peas is a good starting point, as they tend to break down more easily during cooking. Additionally, blending the cooked soup with a little of the cooking liquid using an immersion blender or regular blender will create a luxuriously smooth and creamy texture.

4. Can I add meat to split pea soup?

Yes, you can add meat, such as ham hock, bacon, or sausage. If you’re using smoked meat, it will add a smoky flavour to your soup. Adding meat to your split pea soup will add a hearty protein boost.

5. Can I make split pea soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Simply combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. This is a great way to cook your soup while you're busy with other tasks.

With this guide in hand, you're ready to embark on a culinary adventure with split peas! From classic comfort foods to creative side dishes and global flavour explorations, the possibilities are endless. Get creative, experiment, and discover the delicious world of split peas!