What physical characteristic of split peas causes them to lose structural integrity when heated?
Answer
The outer hull is removed during processing
Split peas are field peas that have been dried, peeled, and split into halves. The critical step in this process is the removal of the outer hull. This husk acts as a protective layer that maintains the shape of the legume; without it, the interior of the pea breaks down rapidly upon exposure to heat, resulting in a thick, creamy puree rather than individual, distinct pieces.

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