Grocery
Dried Split Green Peas
What it is
These are dried, mature green peas that have been split in half. The splitting process removes the skin and breaks the pea into two pieces, which helps them cook more quickly and evenly than whole dried peas. They have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a creamy texture when cooked. They are a versatile pantry staple for many cuisines.
How people cook with it
Split green peas are a foundational ingredient for hearty soups and stews. They also lend themselves well to side dishes and dips.
- Hearty soups
- Thick stews
- Savory side dishes
- Creamy dips
Before cooking, rinse the dried split peas under cool water. They do not typically require soaking, which is a key difference from whole dried peas. Combine the rinsed peas with water or broth in a pot, bringing them to a boil before reducing the heat to a simmer. Cook until tender and creamy, which usually takes about 45 to 60 minutes. You can add aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery during the cooking process to build flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike whole dried peas, split peas cook faster because the splitting process exposes more surface area to the cooking liquid and removes the outer skin. This also results in a creamier, more broken-down texture when cooked, making them ideal for pureed soups.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking to create comforting and flavorful meals will find these peas useful.
How to keep the rest
Store dried split peas in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Properly stored, they can maintain their quality for a long time, though their cooking time may gradually increase over extended periods.