Soak the split peas overnight. Rinse and place in a pot with the red chilli and garlic, along with 1.5 litres of fresh water and 2 tsp of salt.
Cover with a lid and cook over medium-low heat for about 30 minutes, or until tender but not mushy.
Drain the ingredients and reserve 100ml of the cooking water. Combine the peas, chilli, garlic, lemon juice and olive oil in a food processor.
If the mixture is too thick, add some of the reserved cooking water to achieve a creamy consistency.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.