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Split Peas

Split peas, members of the legume family, offer culinary versatility, nutritional benefits, and a touch of old-fashioned charm. These small but mighty peas are created when field peas are harvested, dried, and their skins removed, causing them to split naturally. With their mild flavor and ability to soften into a creamy texture, they are a comforting and satisfying ingredient in various dishes worldwide.

What If My Recipe Doesn’t Specify What Kind of Split Peas to Use?

If your recipe doesn’t specify what kind of split peas to use, fell free to use any version of split peas.

Types of Split Peas

Split peas come in two main varieties:

Green Split Peas

  • Slightly sweeter than their yellow counterparts, green split peas retain their shape better after cooking.
  • They are a popular choice in soups where a more distinct texture is desired, as well as in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes.
  • Read more here.

Yellow Split Peas

  • These are the most common type of split pea.
  • They have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a soft, creamy texture when cooked.
  • Yellow split peas are often used in classic split pea soup and Indian dals.
  • Read more here.

Nutrition Powerhouse

Don’t let their small size fool you – split peas pack a significant nutritional punch. Here’s what they bring to the table:

  • High in Protein: Split peas are a good source of plant-based protein, making them a popular choice for vegetarians and vegans.
  • Excellent Source of Fiber: Their rich fiber content aids digestion, helps regulate blood sugar, and promotes satiety.
  • Packed with Nutrients: Split peas deliver key vitamins and minerals like folate, iron, potassium, and magnesium.

Culinary Adventures with Split Peas

Split peas shine in a variety of dishes across the globe:

  • Soups and Stews: The most classic use for split peas is in hearty soups – think creamy split pea with ham or comforting lentil and split pea combinations.
  • Dals: Indian cuisine has mastered the art of ‘dals’, where split peas are cooked with aromatic spices to create deeply flavorful, comforting dishes.
  • Falafel and Veggie Burgers: Due to their natural binding properties, cooked split peas can add texture and protein to veggie burgers and even be used in some falafel recipes.
  • Spreads and Dips: Cooked and pureed split peas can be transformed into flavorful spreads and dips, perfect for crackers or pita bread.

Split peas offer a delicious, affordable, and nutritious way to add variety to your meals. Whether you’re a fan of classic split pea soup, crave the flavors of Indian dal, or want to explore plant-based alternatives for snacks and burgers, split peas are a humble pantry staple worthy of your culinary attention.

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