Sadly, I just made it for a second time, and absentmindedly forgot to put in the turmeric and cumin. I stirred them in once I realized it, but it's not nearly as good as when you put them in a heat the spices for a minute. I guess that's what you get for trying to cook while entertaining a busy 10 month old.
I didn't put in the additional 3 tbsp. of olive oil, as Heather didn't use them. I used red lentils instead of yellow split peas, as that's what Heather had done. If you use yellow split peas, be sure to soak them in water for 12 hours prior to cooking. I also used canned lentils for the other lentils, just to be lazy and threw in the whole can.
This is delicious served with crackers, pitas, or veggies. I had it for lunch today. And wanted it the other day for breakfast, though I restrained myself :)
1 C dried lentils
1 C yellow split peas (I used red lentils)
1/3 C + 3 tbsp. olive oil
1 C chopped red onion
2 tbsp. chopped garlic
2 tsp. turmeric
2 tsp. ground cumin
1 C (packed) fresh cilantro leaves
2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
1 tsp. chili powder
1. Cook lentils and split peas in 3 C of water until very tender, about 35 minutes. Add more water while cooking if necessary.
2. Heat 1/3 C of oil in heavy large skillet. Add onion and garlic and sauté until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Add turmeric and cumin and stir 1 minute.
3. Transfer mixture to food processor. Add lentils and split peas, cilantro, lemon juice, chili powder and remaining 3 tbsp. of oil. Process until smooth. Season generously with salt and pepper.
