Grocery
Dried Yellow Split Peas
What it is
These are dried, split, and polished yellow peas. They are a legume, a type of vegetable, that has been processed for easier cooking. The splitting process removes the outer skin and breaks the pea in half, which helps them cook more quickly and break down more easily. They are a pantry staple for many cuisines.
How people cook with it
Yellow split peas are often used as a base for hearty soups and stews. They can also be pureed into dips or spreads.
- Soup base
- Stew ingredient
- Dahl preparation
- Vegetable puree
Before cooking, rinse the dried yellow split peas under cold water. They do not typically require soaking, but rinsing is important to remove any dust or debris. Add them to a pot with plenty of liquid, such as water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until tender and broken down. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the desired texture. They are often cooked with aromatics like onions, garlic, and herbs for added flavor.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to whole dried peas, split peas cook faster because the splitting process exposes more surface area to the cooking liquid. They also tend to break down more readily, creating a creamier texture in dishes. Green split peas are similar but offer a slightly different flavor profile.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for versatile plant-based ingredients for soups and stews will find these useful.
How to keep the rest
Store dried yellow split peas in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Properly stored, they can last for a long time, maintaining their quality for future use. Avoid exposure to moisture or direct sunlight.