Imagine a spread so rich, so velvety, and packed with such incredible depth of flavor that it'll make your taste buds dance with joy! This Indian Lentil and Split Pea Spread is not just another boring dip – it's a culinary journey that transforms humble ingredients into a mouthwatering delicacy that will have your guests begging for the recipe. With its creamy texture, aromatic spices, and nutritious profile, this spread is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils (red or green)
- 1/2 cup split peas
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils and split peas thoroughly under cold running water, removing any debris or small stones. Drain well and set aside.
- In a medium-sized pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant and slightly darker.
- Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the rinsed lentils and split peas to the pot, along with 3 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check the consistency periodically, adding more water if needed. The mixture should become thick and creamy.
- Once lentils and split peas are completely soft and have broken down, remove from heat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, mashing the mixture to create a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Let the spread cool for 10 minutes before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Tips
- Rinse your lentils and split peas thoroughly to remove any debris and prevent grittiness in your spread.
- Use fresh cumin seeds and toast them briefly to release their maximum flavor potential.
- Keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing – burnt garlic can make your spread bitter.
- Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- If the spread becomes too thick, add a little warm water to achieve your desired consistency.
- For extra creaminess, you can use an immersion blender to smooth out the texture.
- This spread tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance.
- Experiment with additional spices like turmeric or garam masala for a personalized twist.
- Serve as a dip, sandwich spread, or even as a base for a quick vegetarian meal.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
