Black eye cowpea beans

Types of Black-Eyed Cowpea Beans

Black-eyed cowpea beans are common in many meals, but they come in different types like the spotted type and others below.

• Brown cowpeas

  Brown cowpeas have a brown cream color, and the spotted variety usually has a darker shade of brown. Sometimes, it can be a lighter shade of brown as well, depending on the variety. The bean pods are usually green and turn dry and brittle when harvested. The plant grows about 1 to 2 feet tall.

• Burgundy cowpeas

  Burgundy cowpeas have a deep red or burgundy color, and the spotted variety usually has lighter red or brown spots on the beans. The pods are green, but they can also be purple, and they turn dry and brittle when harvested. The plant grows about 1 to 2 feet tall.

• Black cowpeas

  The black-eye peas have a black color on one side, and that's where they got the name from. The spotted variety might have small black spots on some varieties. The bean pods are green and turn dry and brittle when harvested. The plant grows about 1 to 2 feet tall.

• Green cowpeas

  Green cowpea seeds are usually green in color, and other varieties may have a greenish-brown color. The pods are green and are also slightly fuzzy. They turn dry and brittle when harvested. The plant grows about 1 to 2 feet tall.

• White cowpeas

  White cowpea seeds have a white color, and the spotted variety has white beans with black or brown spots. The pods are green and turn dry and brittle when harvested. The plant grows about 1 to 2 feet tall.

• Chinese or Asian cowpeas

  Chinese cowpeas, also known as Asian long beans or yardlong beans, are different from traditional cowpea varieties. They have ventur colored seeds, which may be black, brown, or speckled, depending on the specific variety. The pods are 9-18 inches long and are green and smooth. The plant grows about 1 to 3 feet tall.

How to Use Black-Eye Cowpea Beans

• Culinary uses

  Black-eyed peas are also known as black-eyed cowpea beans. They are commonly used in soups and stews. It can be used to make Hoppin' John, a traditional Southern dish made with rice and collard greens. Black-eyed peas can be used in a variety of salads.

• Growing black-eyed cowpea beans at home

  Black-eyed cowpea can easily be grown at home in a small garden space or in pots. It does well in warm seasons, so plant them in late spring or early summer when the temperatures are consistently warm.

• Social and cultural significance

  Black-eyed peas have a social and cultural significance in many traditions around the world. In the Southern United States, eating black-eyed peas on New Year's Day is said to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year as part of the traditional meal known as Hoppin' John.

• Nutritional value

  Black-eyed peas are a great source of plant-based protein which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. They are high in fiber which supports digestion, helps control blood sugar levels, and keeps you feeling full. Black-eyed peas are low in fat, making them a heart-healthy choice for those looking to reduce saturated fat intake.

• Diversifying crop rotation

  For people who farm on a large scale, black-eyed cowpea can help diversify crop rotation and improve soil health. They are nitrogen-fixing legumes which means they help replenish soil nutrients and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers.

• Feeding livestock

  Black-eyed cowpeas are not only good for people but are also good for livestock. They are often used as forage or feed for animals like cows, goats, and chickens, providing essential nutrients and protein.

Benefits of Black-Eyed Cowpea Beans

Black-eyed cowpea beans pack a punch, providing a plethora of benefits that nourish the body while delighting the taste buds. Their high fiber content aids digestion and regulates blood sugar, while their rich protein content supports muscle growth and overall tissue repair.

• Good for the digestive system

  The fiber in black-eyed peas promotes healthy digestion by preventing constipation and supporting regular bowel movements. Aids in weight management by increasing feelings of fullness and reducing hunger. The fiber content helps control appetite and may aid in weight loss or maintenance.

• Rich in antioxidants

  Antioxidants help protect the body from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals which are linked to chronic diseases and aging.

• Supports heart health

  Black-eyed peas contribute to heart health due to their low fat content and favorable ratio of unsaturated to saturated fats. Helps lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

• Managing diabetes

  The high fiber content and low glycemic index help regulate blood sugar levels, making them an excellent choice for people with diabetes or those at risk.

• Vegan friendly

  Black-eyed peas are a staple in vegan and vegetarian diets due to their high protein content, serving as an excellent plant-based protein source for meat alternatives.

• Rich in dietary fiber

  Black-eyed peas are packed with dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and regular bowel movements. Helps prevent constipation and supports a balanced gut microbiome which is important for overall health.

• Preparing black-eyed cowpea beans

  Dry black-eyed peas should be rinsed and sorted to remove any debris before soaking. Soak them in water for several hours or overnight to soften them. Canned black-eyed peas are convenient and can be used directly after rinsing them under cold water to remove excess sodium.

• Easy to sprout

  Cowpea sprout beans can be easily sprouted at home by soaking them in water and then allowing them to germinate in a sprouting tray or jar. The sprouts can be used in salads, sandwiches, or stir-fries for added crunch and nutrition.

• A griculture and sustainability

  Considered a sustainable crop because they require less water and nitrogen fertilizer compared to other crops. As a drought-tolerant legume, they help conserve water and provide a reliable source of nutrition in regions with challenging growing conditions.

• Fermentation and food preservation

  Like other legumes, black-eyed peas can be fermented to create nutritious foods like tempeh. Fermentation enhances their nutritional value while adding unique flavors to dishes.

What to Consider When Buying Black-Eyed Cowpea Beans

• Check the color

  As highlighted earlier, the black-eyed cowpea beans come in different colors depending on the type. Make sure you understand what color the type you want is to avoid getting the wrong product.

• Check the condition

  There are two forms of black-eyed cowpea beans: dry beans and fresh beans. If one is looking for dry beans, they should check that the beans are properly dried and stored in a dry place. Fresh or frozen beans should be ordered in bulk only if they can be used before the expiry date is reached.

• Consider canned black-eyed cowpea beans

  Canned black-eyed cowpea beans provide a convenient option for those who don’t have time to prepare dried beans. Canned peas can be purchased in bulk and stored for long periods but should be rinsed to remove high sodium content before cooking them.

• Buy organic

  If any potential buyer is concerned about pesticides or wants to support sustainable farming, they should look for organic black-eyed cowpea beans.

• Buy bulk

  Since black-eyed cowpeas are used widely in many recipes, consider buying in bulk to get the best price.

• Check the supplier's reputation

  When buying black-eyed cowpea beans in bulk online, buyers should make sure they buy from a reputable supplier. Check reviews and ratings to ensure that the supplier delivers quality products and has good customer service.

• Consider packaging

  Packaging is important since it affects product quality, especially if this is a resale business.

Q&A

Q1: How to store black-eyed cowpea beans?

A1: Dry black-eyed cowpea seeds should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry, and dark place. Fresh black-eyed peas should be refrigerated in an airtight container and consumed within 3-5 days or frozen for longer storage. Canned black-eyed peas should be stored in a cool, dry place and consumed by the expiry date on the can.

Q2: How to know black-eyed cowpea beans are ready?

A2: To test if black-eyed cowpeas are done cooking, take a few beans out of the pot and let them cool for a moment. Split one bean in half and check the inside. If the bean is soft all the way through, it’s done. If you see a little hard spot in the middle, they need more time. The beans should also be tender, and they find that they feel soft when pressed between two fingers or in the mouth.

Q3: How to get the best black-eyed cowpea beans?

A3: The best type of black-eyed cowpea bean to use is a healthy, whole, unblemished bean that has a light tan color with a prominent black spot on one side.

Q4: Does black-eyed cowpea beans have gluten?

A4: Black-eyed cowpeas are naturally gluten-free.

Q5: Can people who have diabetes eat black-eyed cowpea bean?

A5: People with diabetes can consume black-eyed cowpea beans because they have high fiber content and a low glycemic index.

Q6: Can black-eyed cowpea beans be reused after cooking?

A6: Cooked black-eyed cowpeas can be refrigerated and used within 3-5 days or frozen for longer storage. They can be reheated and reused in different recipes.

Q7: Can black-eyed cowpea beans be eaten raw?

A7: Black-eyed cowpea beans should not be eaten raw because they contain compounds that need to be cooked to properly digest them.

Q8: What is the shelf life of dry black-eyed cowpea beans?

A8: When properly stored in a cool, dry place, dry black-eyed cowpea beans can last indefinitely for 2-3 years.