How Long to Soak Split Peas?

Dried split peas are often used as a base for hearty winter soups.

Dried split peas belong to the same family as beans and lentils. Like any pulse or legume, split peas can be prepared by boiling in water until tender, but they don't require the long soaking time that beans do.

Soaking

Soaking beans shortens cooking time and helps to preserve nutrients while cooking. Soaking also breaks down indigestible sugars in beans so they won't cause gas. For split peas, this process isn't necessary. Only dried whole peas require pre-soaking before cooking. For dried whole peas, soak at least eight hours or overnight.

Cooking

To cook dried peas, place them in a saucepan with three cups of water for every cup of dried peas. Bring water to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer until the peas are tender. This will take about an hour for whole peas, and half an hour for split peas.

Uses

Uses for split peas include dahl, a classic Indian vegetarian entrée, and split pea soup, a traditional comfort food.

References

• Miss Vickie's Pressure Cooking Recipes: Soaking Beans
• World's Healthiest Foods: Dried Peas