Split Pea-Squash Stew with Basil and Serrano

This fragrant, buttery stew is hearty enough to work as a vegetarian main dish. Serve with a green salad and naan (Indian flatbread) or fresh pita. Prep and Cook Time: 45 minutes. Notes: If you can't find serrano chiles, substitute 2 fresh jalapeños. You can also use less common varieties of basil, such as Thai or lemon (double the number of leaves in the recipe if they're very small).

1 cup yellow split peas, rinsed and sorted for debris

1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric

2 pounds butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-in. cubes

2 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon sugar

6 whole star anise

6 tablespoons butter

2 teaspoons cumin seeds

1 piece ginger (2 in.), peeled and grated

2 serrano chiles, halved, seeded, and thinly sliced

12 large fresh basil leaves, chopped

Step 1

In a large pot, bring split peas, turmeric, and 4 cups water to a boil. Lower heat to a simmer, partially cover, and cook 15 minutes.

Step 2

Add squash, salt, sugar, and star anise. Bring to a boil, lower heat to a simmer, and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until squash is tender, about 15 minutes.

Step 3

In a small frying pan, melt butter. When melted butter stops foaming on top, turn heat to high, add cumin seeds, and cook, stirring, until browned and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add ginger and chiles and cook, stirring constantly, another 2 minutes. Add basil. Stir to combine and cook until basil is wilted, about 30 seconds.

Step 4

Serve stew hot, with the spiced butter poured over each serving. Or stir all the spiced butter into the pot of stew before serving.

Step 5

Note: Nutritional analysis is per serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 0

Amount Per Serving
Calories 437Calories from Fat 37

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 18g28%

Saturated Fat 11g56%
Cholesterol 47mg16%
Sodium 1360mg57%
Total Carbohydrate 60g20%

Dietary Fiber 7.2g29%
Protein 15g30%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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Split Pea-Squash Stew with Basil and Serrano