Split Pea Dahl - Live Below the Line

A simple, cheap and quick vegetarian dahl for the whole family.

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   1 - Take a large pot. Place the peas and water (or vegetable stock) into the pot and bring to a slow simmer.
   2 - Add the turmeric, cayenne and salt, and cover. Allow to cook on a low heat for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   3 - In a large frying pan, heat the onion, cumin and garam masala in the butter (or margarine). Cook for 4 to 6 minutes, until onion is soft.
   4 - Add the onion and spices to the split peas, and allow to simmer for at least 5 more minutes.
   You can crack black pepper or more salt to taste at this point then serve with rice, or on its own in a soup bowl.
   This recipe is both vegetarian and vegan and can be reheated the following day with no problems.
   
   For a variation, try adding a tin of chopped tomatoes to the split peas during cooking and increase the amount of cayenne to a full tsp for a sweeter, more fiery dahl.
   
   The picture shows about 1/3rd of the dahl we made served with plain white rice. We used the rest in a vegetarian soup and to make a split pea vindaloo later in the week. We like it thicker and with less "sauce" but it can be made with an extra 100ml of water or broth to make a more "saucy" version.