• Heat olive oil (or a small amount of water) in a large pot or dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions and garlic and cook until onions are translucent (approx. 5 min.). Add curry paste, water, split peas, and carrot. Stir and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover and let cook , stirring occasionally, until split peas are fully cooked and soft (approx. 50 - 60 min.) Turn off heat and let soup cool slightly.
• Puree soup to desired consistency with an immersion blender or a regular blender. If using a regular blender, work in batches. Add back to pot. Stir in coconut milk and heat until hot. Serve and garnish with a dollop of yogurt and cilantro if desired.

* yellow curry paste is available in well stocked grocery stores and in Asian markets. As an alternative you can substitute 2 teaspoon curry powder + 1 teaspoon cumin+ ½ teaspoon cinnamon.