Yellow Split Pea Dip

                                                                                     
Quantities                  Ingredients
1/4 c.
Finely chopped yellow onions
2 tsp.
Finely chopped fresh ginger
2 cloves
Garlic, minced
5 tsp.
Olive oil
2 tsp.
Curry powder
1 tsp.
Ground cumin
1/2 tsp.
Turmeric
1 c.
Yellow split peas, sorted and rinsed
4 c.
Water or defatted chicken stock (or a mixture)
2 tsp.
Lemon juice
1 tsp.
Finely grated lemon rind
2 Tbsp.
Finely chopped red onions
Pinch
Ground red pepper
1/4 tsp.
Dried oregano

Preparation Procedures:

1. In a 2-quart saucepan over low heat, sauté the yellow onions, ginger and half the garlic in 1 teaspoon of the oil for 3 minutes or until the onions are tender. Stir in the curry powder, cumin and turmeric.

2. Add the split peas and water or stock. Raise the heat to medium-high and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover and cook for 1 1/4 hours, or until the split peas are very soft and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Drain off any remaining liquid.

3. Transfer to a large bowl and chill for several hours or overnight. Spoon the mixture (it will be very stiff) into a food processor. Add 1 1/2 teaspoons of the remaining oil, 1 tablespoon of the lemon juice and the lemon rind. Process until smooth, creamy and light in color.

4. Transfer the mixture to a low serving bowl or plate. Spread evenly in the dish. Sprinkle with the red onions and pepper.

5. In a cup, whisk together the remaining 2 1/2 teaspoons of oil and the remaining 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Add the oregano and remaining garlic; mix well. Just before serving, drizzle over the dip.

Yield:  8 servings