This simple split lentil recipe combines loads of aromatic flavours such as ginger, onion and chilli, with split yellow lentils, tomatoes and other spices. It's then seasoned with salt and pepper and enhanced with freshly chopped coriander.

Ingredients:

• 1 litre water
• 250g yellow split peas
• 4 tomatoes
• 4 garlic cloves
• 1 small onion
• 3 small whole green chillies
• 3 tbsp. veg oil
• Thumb-size piece fresh ginger
• 1 tbsp. cumin seeds
• 1 tsp. ground turmeric
• 1 tsp. garam masala
• Pinch ground coriander
• Salt and pepper
• Handful freshly chopped coriander

Method of Preparation:

1. Cook the lentils in 900ml of the water for 35 minutes until tender, removing any scum on the top of the water as needed. When tender, whisk to break down the lentils slightly then leave to cool. Prick each whole chilli with a knife, thinly slice the onion and mince the ginger.

2. Meanwhile, heat the oil. Add the cumin seeds and after thirty seconds, add the onion, whole chillies and minced ginger. Fry for 4-5 minutes.

3. Blend the garlic and tomatoes in a processor until smooth, then add this to the pan.

4. Add the turmeric, garam masala, ground coriander and salt and pepper as well as the remaining water.

5. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, then add the lentils. Bring just to the boil to serve, then stir in the chopped coriander.

Add more or less chilli to this recipe depending on how hot you like your food. This recipe serves four.

Author: Laura Young

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