Ater Kik Alecha We't (Ethiopian Split Pea Stew)

1 cup yellow split peas 
3 cups water
1 cup chopped onion (red is traditional)
Oil for sauteeing
1/2 tablespoon ginger, chopped
1 tablespoon garlic, chopped
1 teaspoon powdered ginger
1 teaspoon powdered garlic
1/4 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
Salt to taste

Rinse peas and add them to 3 cups water in medium size pan. 
Cook peas over medium heat until soft (35-40 minutes). 
In separate medium pan, saute onions in a generous amount of oil until the onions are soft.
Add spices. Cook and stir until garlic and ginger are cooked but not browned.
Combine onion mixture with split peas.
Salt to taste.