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Split peas are delicious legumes that are packed with nutrients and vitamins. They are a great source of protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to cook split peas, giving you a variety of options to try out. Whether you prefer creamy soup or chunky stew, we have got you covered. So, let’s get cooking!
Types of split peas
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a quick look at the different types of split peas and their characteristics.
Green split peas
Green split peas are the most widely available type of split peas. They have a light green color and a tender texture. They are perfect for making soups and stews, and they are a great source of protein and fiber.
Yellow split peas
Yellow split peas are sweeter and milder in taste than green split peas. They have a rich yellow color and are often used to make dhal, a traditional Indian lentil dish. Yellow split peas are also a great source of vitamins and minerals.
Red split peas
Red split peas are the smallest and sweetest of all the split peas. They have a reddish-orange color and are perfect for making soups and stews. They are a great source of iron, protein, and fiber.
Option 1: Stovetop cooking
Stovetop cooking is the most traditional way of cooking split peas. Here is how you can do it:
Step 1: Soaking the split peas (optional)
Soaking your split peas is an optional step that can help reduce cooking time and make them easier to digest. If you choose to soak them, all you need to do is place them in a large bowl, cover them with water, and let them soak for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Step 2: Prepping the split peas
Once your split peas are soaked (or not), drain the water and rinse them thoroughly. Remove any stones or debris that you may find.
Step 3: Boiling the split peas
Place your split peas in a large pot and add enough water to cover them. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the split peas cook for 30 to 45 minutes, or until they are tender. You can season them with salt, pepper, and any other spices or herbs of your choice.
Step 4: Making split pea soup or stew
Once your split peas are cooked, you can use them to make a delicious soup or stew. Simply add some vegetables (such as carrots, celery, and onion), some stock or broth, and any other ingredients of your choice. Let everything simmer together for another 20 to 30 minutes, and you are done!
Option 2: Slow Cooker Split Peas
If you prefer a more hands-off approach, you can also cook your split peas in a slow cooker. Here is how you can do it:
Step 1: Prepping the split peas
Just like with stovetop cooking, you will need to rinse and drain your split peas before cooking them.
Step 2: Adding ingredients to the slow cooker
Place your split peas in the slow cooker along with any vegetables, meats, or other ingredients of your choice. Add enough water or stock to cover the split peas, and then set your slow cooker to low heat.
Step 3: Cooking the split peas
Let your split peas cook in the slow cooker for 6 to 8 hours, or until they are tender and fully cooked. You can season them with salt, pepper, and any other spices or herbs of your choice.
Step 4: Making split pea soup or stew
Once your split peas are cooked, you can use them to make a delicious soup or stew just like with the stovetop method.
Option 3: Pressure Cooker Split Peas
If you are short on time, you can also cook your split peas in a pressure cooker. Here is how:
Step 1: Prepping the split peas
Rinse and drain your split peas and remove any stones or debris that you may find.
Step 2: Adding ingredients to the pressure cooker
Place your split peas in the pressure cooker along with any vegetables, meats, or other ingredients of your choice. Add enough water or stock to cover the split peas.
Step 3: Cooking the split peas
Add the lid to the pressure cooker and set it to high pressure. Cook the split peas for 12 to 15 minutes, then release the pressure naturally. You can season them with salt, pepper, and any other spices or herbs of your choice.
Step 4: Making split pea soup or stew
Once your split peas are cooked, you can use them to make a delicious soup or stew just like with the stovetop method.
FAQ
Can I freeze split peas?
Yes, split peas freeze well. If you have leftover cooked split peas, let them cool down, then transfer them to an airtight container or a ziplock bag. Label and freeze them for up to 3 months.
Why are my split peas not getting soft?
If your split peas are not getting soft, it is possible that they are old or stale. Try using fresher split peas and make sure to cook them long enough.
Are split peas gluten-free?
Yes, split peas are naturally gluten-free, making them a great option for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Are split peas good for weight loss?
Yes, split peas are a great food for weight loss. They are low in fat and calories and high in fiber, which helps you feel full and satisfied for longer.
