3 1/4 cups water
1 cup split peas
1 carrot, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 small onion, chopped
2-4 cloves garlic, depending on taste, chopped
1-2 hot peppers (jalapeno, habanera, etc.), chopped (optional)
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
salt & pepper to taste
Bring split peas and water to rapid boil. Add carrot, celery & onion and boil for another 15 minutes. Remove from heat. I usually let it cool before the next step.
Place mixture in food processor with garlic, hot peppers and spices, if desired. Blend until smooth.
I like this dip chilled rather than warm.