Ingredients:

  Amount  Measure       Ingredient -- Preparation Method
--------  ------------  --------------------------------
   1      Pound         Yellow Split Peas
   8      Cups          Water
   2      Tablespoons   Unsalted Butter
   6      Large         Garlic Cloves -- crushed
   2      Teaspoons     Cumin
   2      Teaspoons     Mustard Seeds
   1 1/2  Teaspoons     Turmeric
   1      Teaspoon      Cinnamon
   1      Teaspoon      Salt -- or to taste
                        Black Pepper -- -and/or-
                        Cayenne Pepper

Preparation:

Place split peas in a saucepan with the water. Cover and bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer very slowly, partially covered, until soft (2 to 2 1/2 hours) Melt butter in a large skillet. Add garlic, cumin, mustard seeds, turmeric, and cinnamon. Cook, stirring, over medium heat 3 to 5 minutes. Add to cooked peas and stir until everything is well mixed. Add salt and peppers.