Yellow Split Pea Dahl Recipe 🌿

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 inch ginger, grated or finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, crushed or grated
• 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional for heat) 🌶️
• ½ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (or ground cumin if you prefer)
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 3 whole cloves
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 cinnamon stick, broken in half
• 1 cup yellow split peas, rinsed and drained
• 3 cups vegetable stock (or water, if you prefer a lighter flavor)
• 1 tablespoon tomato puree
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned) 🍅
• 2 cups fresh spinach (or a mix of cilantro and arugula for garnish) 🌿
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large, lidded saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Sauté until they start to sizzle and pop, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the diced onion and cook gently with the lid on for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened but not browned.
4. Add ginger, garlic, and green chili (if using). Sauté for another 1 minute with the lid off.
5. Stir in chili flakes, turmeric, cloves, coriander, and cinnamon stick. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant, adding a splash of water if the pan becomes too dry.
6. Add yellow split peas, vegetable stock, tomato puree, and diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid. Simmer for 40–45 minutes or until the split peas are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
   • Tip: If the mixture gets too thick before the peas are tender, add a bit more water and continue to cook.
8. Once the split peas are cooked to your liking, stir in the fresh spinach. Cook until just wilted but still vibrant, about 1–2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot with brown or white rice

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh cilantro 🌿
• Sliced red onion 🧅
• Lime wedges 🍋 for a fresh citrus kick

💡Tips:

1. For a creamier dahl: Use an immersion blender to blend a small portion of the cooked dahl before adding the spinach.
2. For more heat: Add extra chili flakes or use a spicier green chili. 🌶️
3. Serve with chicken, fish or meat for extra protein 🥰