Curried Split Pea Soup

1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic (more more more!), minced
2 T fresh ginger, minced
2 t curry powder
1 t ground cumin
1/4 t ground coriander
1/4 t ground cardamom (we were out at the time)
generous pinch o' cinnamon
2 t salt
8 c water
1 lb dried split peas
1 carrot

saute onions for a bit. throw in garlic, spices, ginger, and salt. saute a bit more. add water, stir well. add peas, cover, bring to a boil. simmer til peas are tender, prob. an hour.