As the weather cools down, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of goodness to cozy up with. And what better ingredient to do just that than the humble yellow split pea? These tiny legumes pack a punch when it comes to protein and fiber, making them an excellent addition to any meal. But don’t just take our word for it – we’ve rounded up 20 of the most delicious and hearty yellow split pea recipes out there, perfect for a cozy night in. From classic soups to international-inspired curries, and even some innovative twists on traditional dishes, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
Stay tuned as we dive into each and every one of these amazing recipes, featuring flavors like smoky ham, spicy curry, and comforting coconut stews. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration to get in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started!
Classic Yellow Split Pea Soup with Ham
This comforting soup is a staple of traditional cuisine, made with split peas, ham, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried yellow split peas
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 pound diced cooked ham
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Rinse the peas and pick out any debris or stones.
2. In a large pot, combine the peas, broth, ham, onion, garlic, and mustard.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs (optional).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Yellow Split Pea Curry
A flavorful and aromatic curry that combines the natural sweetness of yellow split peas with a spicy kick from red chili peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried yellow split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup water or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, sauté the onions, garlic, and bell pepper in a little oil until tender.
2. Add the cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in the split peas, diced tomatoes, water or broth, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for about 30-40 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Yellow Split Pea and Coconut Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of comforting and exotic flavors. Aromatic spices and tender split peas come together with coconut milk for a rich and creamy dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried yellow split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine split peas, water or broth, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until peas are tender.
3. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until stew has thickened slightly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Yellow Split Pea Dal with Cumin and Turmeric
This flavorful and nutritious dal is a staple of Indian cuisine, made by simmering yellow split peas with aromatic spices. It’s a comforting and filling side dish or main course that pairs well with rice, naan, or roti.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried yellow split peas
– 4 cups water
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse the split peas and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the soaked peas, then transfer them to a large pot with 4 cups of fresh water.
3. Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, ground cumin, turmeric, and salt to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the peas are tender.
5. Stir in the vegetable oil and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Yellow Split Pea and Vegetable Stew
This hearty and comforting stew is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. The combination of tender yellow split peas, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic spices makes for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried yellow split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the yellow split peas, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the peas are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Yellow Split Pea Hummus with Garlic and Lemon
This vibrant twist on traditional hummus combines the nutty flavor of yellow split peas with a tangy kick from garlic and lemon. Perfect for dipping veggies, crackers, or pita chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked yellow split peas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika, parsley, or other herbs for garnish
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the yellow split peas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the peas, lemon juice, garlic, tahini, and olive oil.
3. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with paprika, parsley, or other herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (blending time)
Enjoy your bright and tangy Yellow Split Pea Hummus!
Yellow Split Pea and Sausage Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the sweetness of yellow split peas with the savory flavor of sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups yellow split peas, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in yellow split peas, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Yellow Split Pea Fritters with Herbs
A delightful twist on traditional fritters, these crispy Yellow Split Pea Fritters are infused with the freshness of herbs and perfect as a snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup yellow split peas
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Rinse the peas and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight. Drain and blend until smooth.
2. In a bowl, combine the pea puree, flour, parsley, dill, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, egg, and lemon juice. Mix well to form a thick batter.
3. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yellow Split Pea and Spinach Soup
A comforting and nutritious soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of protein, fiber, and vitamins from the split peas and spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried yellow split peas
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the split peas, water or broth, onion, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes.
2. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.
3. Add cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Yellow Split Pea and Sweet Potato Curry
This vibrant curry is a perfect blend of creamy yellow split peas, sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices. Serve it with rice or naan for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried yellow split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add sweet potatoes and stir to combine. Cook for 5 minutes or until they start to soften.
4. Add yellow split peas, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until peas are tender and sweet potatoes are fully cooked.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Yellow Split Pea and Carrot Stew
This hearty and comforting stew is a perfect blend of creamy yellow split peas and sweet carrots, simmered to perfection in a flavorful broth. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried yellow split peas
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine yellow split peas, carrots, onion, and garlic.
2. Pour in vegetable broth and add cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the peas are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Yellow Split Pea and Tomato Soup
This recipe combines the comfort of split peas with the brightness of fresh tomatoes, creating a deliciously creamy and nutritious soup perfect for any time of year. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a warm and satisfying bowl in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried yellow split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: heavy cream or Greek yogurt for added richness
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
2. Add the split peas, water or broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until peas are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add heavy cream or Greek yogurt for added richness.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Yellow Split Pea and Bacon Chowder
This comforting chowder combines the creamy sweetness of yellow split peas with the smoky savory flavor of crispy bacon, all in a rich and flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried yellow split peas, rinsed and drained
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the butter, onion, and garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the chicken broth, milk, and yellow split peas to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the peas are tender.
5. Stir in the cooked bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Yellow Split Pea and Kale Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of comforting and nutritious, packed with the natural sweetness of yellow split peas and the earthy flavor of kale. A simple and satisfying meal for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried yellow split peas, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the yellow split peas, water or broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the peas are tender.
4. Stir in the chopped kale and continue to simmer until wilted.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Yellow Split Pea and Lentil Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of creamy split peas, nutritious lentils, and aromatic spices. Serve warm with crusty bread for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried yellow split peas
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the split peas, lentils, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the peas and lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Yellow Split Pea and Mushroom Risotto
This creamy risotto combines the sweet flavor of yellow split peas with the earthy taste of mushrooms, creating a delicious and comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup yellow split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously until absorbed before adding the next batch (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Add yellow split peas and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
7. Stir in butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Yellow Split Pea and Chorizo Stew
This vibrant stew combines the creamy texture of yellow split peas with the spicy kick of chorizo, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried yellow split peas, rinsed and drained
– 1 pound chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chorizo and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
4. Add the yellow split peas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the peas are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Yellow Split Pea and Pumpkin Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of autumnal flavors, with the natural sweetness of pumpkin and the creamy texture of yellow split peas. It’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 small pumpkin (about 1 lb), peeled and cubed
– 1 cup dried yellow split peas
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the pumpkin, yellow split peas, vegetable broth, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until the peas are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Yellow Split Pea and Ginger Stew
A flavorful and comforting stew that combines the sweetness of yellow split peas with the spicy warmth of ginger, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried yellow split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced ginger and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Add the yellow split peas, water or broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
5. Stir in the minced garlic and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Yellow Split Pea and Rosemary Bread
This aromatic bread combines the subtle sweetness of yellow split peas with the piney flavor of rosemary, perfect for a rustic snack or accompaniment to your favorite soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup yellow split peas
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, split peas, salt, and sugar.
3. Add warm water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Place dough on a floured surface and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped rosemary.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Cozy up with these 20 delicious and hearty yellow split pea recipes! From classic soups to spicy curries, stews, and more, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Try making a comforting Yellow Split Pea Soup with Ham, or spice things up with the Yellow Split Pea Curry. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try the Yellow Split Pea Fritters with Herbs or the Yellow Split Pea and Chorizo Stew. Whatever your craving, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.