Easy Split Pea Curry (High Protein, Oil-Free) Recipe
This Easy Split Pea Curry is a hearty, high-protein, and oil-free vegan dish that’s simple to make and packed with warming spices. Made with yellow split peas and a blend of aromatic spices such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander, this curry is both flavorful and nutritious. Perfect as a comforting meal served with your favorite toppings or sides.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups water, divided
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, more or less to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 1/4 cups dried yellow split peas, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup canned tomato puree
Suggested Toppings (Optional)
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice
- Chopped green chilies
- Plain yogurt or vegan yogurt
- Toasted nuts or seeds
Instructions
- Sauté Onion: In a medium, heavy saucepan, combine 1/2 cup (125 mL) of the water with the chopped onion. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then cook and stir for 4 to 5 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent.
- Add Spices and Ingredients: Add the ground ginger, coriander, turmeric, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and optional ground cinnamon to the saucepan. Stir in the rinsed yellow split peas and tomato puree. Cook and stir for an additional 2 minutes to allow the spices to release their aroma.
- Simmer the Curry: Pour in the remaining 3 cups of water and bring the mixture back to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and partially cover the saucepan. Let it simmer gently for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the split peas are tender. If you prefer a softer texture, cook for an additional 5 minutes, adding more water as needed to maintain desired consistency.
- Season and Serve: Taste the curry and adjust the salt if needed. Serve warm with your choice of suggested toppings or accompaniments, such as fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lemon juice, or yogurt.
Notes
- You can substitute tomato puree with canned crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce if preferred.
- If you want a creamier texture, blend a portion of the cooked curry or add a dollop of yogurt.
- For added protein, serve with steamed rice or flatbreads.
- This recipe is oil-free, making it a heart-healthy option.
- Adding more cayenne pepper will increase the heat level of the curry.
Keywords: split pea curry, oil-free curry, vegan curry, high protein curry, easy split pea recipe, Indian split pea curry, healthy vegan dinner
