Yellow Split Pea Curry

This hearty one-pot yellow split pea curry is made with cauliflower and delicious Indian-inspired spices. Budget-friendly, plant-based, and perfect over rice or meal-prepped for the week.

If you’re looking for a cozy, nourishing, and ridiculously satisfying plant-based meal, this split pea curry is it. I’ve made it SO many times, and every bowl still hits the spot. It’s become one of my go-to weeknight dinners—not just because it’s easy and affordable, but because it’s packed with flavor and keeps well for leftovers. This curry has everything you need for a complete, balanced meal. Protein and fiber from the yellow split peas, fat from the coconut milk, and cauliflower to bulk it up with veggie goodness! 

As split peas simmer, they break down and naturally thicken the curry into a rich, hearty spoonable stew. Serve it over rice, with puppadums, or straight from the pot. However you enjoy it, this curry is a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients you’ll need

This one pot split pea curry is so easy to make with a few kitchen staples.

• Yellow Split Peas: A great source of plant protein, they are filling and easy to cook with, found in the dry food section among legumes and pulses.
• Cauliflower: Cauliflower florets help bulk up the mixture for very little added calories. You need about 5 cups of florets, which amounts to 1 small head of cauliflower
• Tomatoes. I like to add chopped fresh tomatoes to my vegan curry but I've used canned chopped tomatoes. Tomatoes provide this Indian curry with its necessary tang.
• Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk adds delicious creaminess to this curry and tones down the heat from the spices. Light coconut milk can be used, but it won’t have the same creamy 'oomph'.
• Aromatics: Onion, garlic, and fresh ginger create a dynamic base for the curry. If you only have ground ginger, you can substitute with about a teaspoon of dried ginger.
• Spices: A blend of mild curry powder and garam masala ensures maximum flavor.
• Oil: Coconut or avocado oil works well in this recipe.

Complete list of ingredients and amounts is located on the recipe card below.

How to Make Split Pea Curry

Soak: In a medium bowl, soak the split peas in cold water overnight. When ready to cook, rinse them until the water runs clear.

Cook the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat oil over low-medium heat. Add the onion, ginger, and garlic. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, until softened and fragrant.

Add Tomatoes & Seasonings: Stir in the curry powder, garam masala, and diced tomatoes. Cook for 3–4 minutes, until the tomatoes break down slightly.

Add Peas & Liquids: Add the rinsed split peas, vegetable stock, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 45 minutes.

Add Veggies: Add the cauliflower, and a bit more salt and pepper if needed. Cook for another 15 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender.

Finish: Remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding a splash of lemon juice or vinegar if desired.

Recipe Variations

• No Split Peas? Swap them for brown, green, red, or yellow lentils. Mung beans or chana dal (a type of yellow lentil) also work well.
• Make it Coconut-Free: Replace the coconut milk with almond or soy milk, or use ⅓ cup cashew or peanut butter plus an extra cup of stock. Note that this will change the creaminess and flavor.
• Add Extra Veggies: Got produce to use up? Broccoli, pumpkin, sweet potato, white potatoes, or kale all make great additions.

How to Store

Store leftover curry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To defrost, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Serving Suggestion

Serve your split pea curry with a dollop of plain yogurt, fresh coriander (cilantro), and pickled onions, if desired. Puppadums and naan bread makes a delicious accompaniment as well!

Recipe FAQ

More Curry Recipes

Broccoli Lentil Dahl Curry

Chickpea Spinach Curry

Curried Butternut Squash & Lentil Soup

Nourishing Chickpea & Lentil Curry

If you try this split pea curry recipe or have a question, please let me know! Leave a comment and rate it below. I love to hear what you think, or any changes you make.

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