Split Pea Basmati Rice

     You know that warm comforting feeling that can only come from one source!?  Thought so...  That's right, carbs!...but the good kind (you know,... like cholesterol...or fat).  While this might be considered a warm weather dish, I found it perfectly satisfying during the summer...starches knows no seasons...  Each of these 8 hearty servings are only 185 calories, 24g net carbs and 7.5g protein.  Add some diced Grilled Chicken and serve with Crusty Bread and you have a perfect dish on your hands!  :)

Ingredients for 8 large servings~
1/2 cup Yellow, Red or Green Split Pea Lentils
1/2 cup Brown Basmati Rice
1 Tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 medium diced Onion
1 Tablespoon chopped Garlic
Dash Cayenne Pepper
1 teaspoon Cumin
1/2 teaspoon Turmeric
1 inch peeled chopped Ginger
2 Roma Tomatoes, chopped
1 Poblano or Serrano Chili, seeded and diced
4 cups Water
1 Tablespoon Chicken Base, or 3 Chicken Bouillon Cubes
1/2-1 bunch Cilanto, leaves removed
15oz drained can Garbanzo Beans
Diced Red Bell Pepper, to taste as garnish

     Soak Split Pea's and Rice in water for 30 minutes, drain.  Meanwhile, heat EVOO in skillet, add Onion, Garlic and Cayenne til Onions are golden brown, may take 30 minutes.  Add Cumin, Turmeric, Ginger, Roma, and Chili's til Tomatoes are softened, about 5 minutes.  Add Water, Chicken Base, Lentils and Rice, bring to boil and simmer for 40 minutes or til Lentils and Rice have softened.  Stir in drained Garbanzo Beans and Cilantro to heat thru.  Garnish with Red Bell Pepper and Cilantro, as desired.  Enjoy  :)