Will split peas soften like red lentils?

Question

I have made a curry and put in some yellow split peas that i soaked overnight. i was expecting them to go to a dhal like red lentils . will they do this or do they hold their shape and stay a little bit nutty. they have been in the curry for at lease 45 minoutes

Answer 1

They don't mush up exactly the same as lentils does, but here's a tip.  Put in a little sugar and let it simmer.  They break up a lot easier that way.  The sugar will make your curry taste even better by the way.  Not a lot though just about a teaspoon.

Answer 2

They won't mush down like red lentils do. They do hold their shape but still provide a slightly thick sauce. I don't think they need 45 mins though. Simmering helps them to soften quicker rather than a fast, rapid boil.

And I soak any lentils or pulses over night, it cuts cooking time right down.

Answer 3

You can use a fork or wand blender to mash them. You don't have to soak lentils or split peas over night.

Answer 4

best to simmer them separately for about 30 minutes then add them to the curry.

Answer 5

Yes they will soften.

Answer 6

Split peas will not break down to the red lentil consistency ,even with pre soaking & prolonged  cooking ,the two cook very differently ,if you do not wish to have them maintain their shape ,you will need to mash /blend them to a paste & then add back into the curry gravy.

In India where we commonly cook split peas,we cook the peas first then blend to a paste of desire consistency & lastly mix in spices & vegetables ,adding water to make a curry like gravy.Pressure cooking is a quick & fool proof method of softening split peas or other dry beans .

Answer 7

Some of the dal (lentile) curries are cooked over night in India or are double cooked. Once cooked seperately till soft and then with crackle and curry mix again (open or pressure cook) 45 minutes is nothing in comparison. Continue ro cook the Dal on slow fire till it is soft to your liking.