Eastern-Style Mulligatawny Soup

1 . Stage

Pour enough water over split peas in a large bowl to cover by at least 1 inch; soak at least 30 minutes.

2 . Stage

Drain split peas and transfer to a large pot. Pour 4 cups water over the split peas. Stir turmeric, ground dried chile pepper, and salt into the water; bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer, adding more water as needed to thin, until split peas are tender, 30 to 40 minutes.

3 . Stage

Stir lemon juice and tomato paste into the split pea mixture; increase heat to medium and cook until the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes more.

4 . Stage

Heat vegetable oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Fry garlic and cumin seeds in hot oil until the garlic browns, about 5 minutes; stir into the soup.