Pigeon peas

Types of Pigeon Peas

Pigeon pea seeds are diverse in types, each bearing unique attributes to cater to various agricultural and culinary needs. Here is a rundown on the most common types of pigeon peas:

• Brown pigeon peas

  Pigeon pea pods and seeds, commonly known as brown peas, are the most widely used and traditional type of pigeon peas. Brown peas have an earthy and nutty flavor and are brownish in color when dried. When cooked, they offer a soft to firm texture depending on how long they are cooked. Brown peas are prominent in Indian, Caribbean, and African cuisines.

• Green pigeon peas

  Green pigeon peas are harvested when young and fresh, while the peas are still tender and green. They are commonly used in their fresh form but can also be dried and used as split peas. When cooked, they have a slightly softer texture compared to dried brown peas. Green pigeon peas have a fresh and slightly sweet, mild pea flavor and are prominent in Indian and Caribbean cuisines especially in the dish rice and peas.

• Split pigeon peas (toor dal)

  Split pigeon peas are hulled and split seeds of the pigeon pea plant. Pigeon peas from reliable suppliers like those on Alibaba are a common staple in Indian cuisine. Split peas have a mild, nutty flavor and a slightly grainy texture. They tend to be pale yellow in color but can also be light brown. Split pigeon peas are used to make dal, which is a spiced lentil dish in Indian cooking.

• Red pigeon peas

  Red pigeon peas are also known as Angola peas or Gungo peas and are the seeds of the Cajanus cajan plant. They have a reddish-brown color and are slightly larger than other varieties. They are commonly used in Caribbean dishes. Red pigeon peas have an earthy and robust flavor with a firm texture that remains intact even after prolonged cooking. They are a staple in dishes like rice and peas in Jamaican cuisine.

• Dwarf pigeon peas

  Dwarf pigeon peas are smaller in size than other varieties and are produced by compact, short-statured plants. They are commonly used in tropical regions and have a nutty flavor. They are also a preferred choice for sustainable agriculture due to their drought resistance.

How to Use Pigeon Peas

Pigeon peas are versatile and can be used to make a variety of dishes in different cuisines around the world. Below is a comprehensive rundown on how to use pigeon peas:

• Curry and stews

  Pigeon peas are a staple in many cultures and are used in curries and stews. In Indian cuisine, they are served as toor dal, which is a spiced lentil curry made with split pigeon peas. To make this dish, soaked overnight and boiled split pigeon peas are sautéed with mustard seeds, turmeric, green chilies, ginger, and onions. In Caribbean cooking, brown pigeon peas are displaced in rice and peas (rice with pigeon peas), where they are cooked with rice, coconut milk, and spices.

• Soups

  Pigeon peas are also used in soups. Pigeon pea soup is a popular dish in Puerto Rico which is made with onions, garlic, peppers, and ham or bacon. Muddied or whole peas are added to the soup to give it a hearty and nutty flavor.

• Salads

  Fresh pigeon peas are tender and peas and can be a great addition to salads. They add a nutty and slightly sweet flavor to the salads as well as a good source of protein and fiber. In Mediterranean salads, they are combined with other vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers, along with olives and feta cheese for a refreshing and filling salad. In Mexican cuisine, they are used in bean salads with cilantro, lime, and onions.

• Tortillas and snacks

  Pigeon pea flour is used to make gluten-free tortillas and flatbreads. In the Caribbean, especially in Jamaica, they make “Gungo Peas and Rice” a traditional dish during special holidays with pigeon pea flour and cornmeal. In Africa, especially in East Africa, roasted pigeon peas are a popular snack known as “kuyus” or “kuyama.” They are eaten during tea time or as a quick snack on the go. They are also ground into flour to make porridge and other snacks.

• Fermented dishes

  In some cultures, fermented dishes made with pigeon peas are popular. In South India, fermented batter made with split pigeon peas and rice is used to make dosa, which are thin crepes, and idli, which are steamed rice cakes. The fermentation process gives these dishes a slightly tangy flavor.

Benefits of Pigeon Peas

Pigeon peas are a nutrient-packed and rich and beneficial legumes that are good for healthy living. Here is a detailed rundown on the various health benefits of pigeon peas:

• High in protein

  Pigeon peas are rich in protein and make a great plant-based protein source for vegetarians and vegans. They are especially high in amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. Consuming protein-rich foods like pigeon peas helps with tissue repair, muscle growth, and overall cell function.

• High in fiber

  Pigeon peas are a great source of dietary fiber, both soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber helps reduce blood cholesterol levels and regulate blood sugar levels, which is good for people with diabetes. Insoluble fiber adds bulk to the gut, helps with bowel movement and regularity, and aids in the prevention of constipation. The high fiber content in pigeon peas also promotes a healthy gut microbiome by feeding beneficial bacteria.

• Rich in vitamins and minerals

  Pigeon peas are a great source of vitamins and minerals such as folate, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and iron. Consumption of pigeon peas helps in the production of red blood cells and the prevention of anemia because of the high iron content. Folate is important for DNA synthesis and cell division, while magnesium helps in muscle relaxation, nerve function, and blood pressure regulation.

• Rich in antioxidants

  Pigeon peas contain antioxidants such as polyphenols and flavonoids, which help in neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body. This helps in reducing oxidative stress and the risk of chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerative disorders. Antioxidants also promote overall skin health by combating signs of aging.

• Supports weight management

  The high protein and fiber content in pigeon peas help to promote satiety and reduce hunger, leading to lower calorie intake. They also have a relatively low glycemic index, which means they provide slow, long-lasting energy and help in keeping blood sugar levels stable. This makes pigeon peas a good choice for managing weight effectively.

How to Store Pigeon Peas

Properly storing pigeon peas helps maintain their quality and extend their shelf life, whether they are fresh, dried, or cooked. Below is a detailed saunter on how to store pigeon peas:

• Store fresh pigeon peas in the refrigerator

  Fresh pigeon peas can be stored in the refrigerator to prolong their shelf life. Place them in a breathable bag or container to prevent moisture buildup while minimizing air exposure to the peas. They can last for about 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator before they start to lose freshness. Before using them, they should be inspected for any signs of spoilage such as mold or wilting.

• Store dried pigeon peas in a cool, dry place

  Dried green peas can last for several months or even up to a year if stored properly. The peas should be kept in an airtight container to protect them from moisture, light, and pests. A cool and dark pantry or cupboard is ideal for storing dried peas. Label the container with the date of storage to keep track of the age of the peas and ensure that they are consumed before they age or get spoiled.

• Store cooked pigeon peas in the refrigerator

  Boiled or cooked pigeon peas should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. For longer storage, cooked peas can be frozen and stored in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen cooked peas can last for up to 2 to 3 months. To freeze, allow the cooked peas to cool completely before transferring them to the freezer.

• Check for pests regularly

  Pigeon peas are susceptible to pests such as weevils when left in unsuitable conditions. To prevent pest infestation, it is best to store dried peas in airtight containers. Regularly inspect the peas for any signs of pest activity and discard any infested peas immediately.

• Keep dried peas away from direct sunlight

  Exposure to direct sunlight can cause dried pigeon peas to lose their color and reduce their quality. It can also cause them to age faster by eliminating the moisture content. For this reason, store them in a dark container or in a dark place.

Quality Pigeon Peas Manufacturer

Buyers looking for wholesale pigeon peas on Alibaba should consider the following things to get the best quality. First, they should check the suppliers' product pages and look at the reviews to get a good idea of the quality of the peas. Some manufacturers harvest organic peas. Others get green peas from wholesale pigeon pea plants. Also, some producers like those on Alibaba supply bulk peas to other businesses.

Manufacturers' shipping and return policies can also affect the buying decision. Buyers should consider these policies based on how often they order and the size of their orders. Suppliers' shipping times are important because, in some cases, buyers need to get more stock quickly. In other situations, buyers may be okay with longer shipping times. Finally, when placing the first order, buyers may start with a sample of pigeon peas to test quality before buying in bulk.

Q&A

Q1: Do pigeon peas need to be soaked before cooking?

A1: Pigeon peas do not need to be pre-soaked, but soaking them for a few hours can help reduce cooking time. However, if split pigeon peas are being cooked, they typically require no soaking because they cook relatively quickly compared to whole peas.

Q2: Do pigeon peas have another name?

A2: Yes, pigeon peas are also known as gungo peas, especially in Caribbean regions. They are also called red peas, particularly when referring to specific varieties of pigeon peas.

Q3: Are pigeon peas healthy to eat?

A3: Yes, they are healthy. They are a good source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious legume option for a balanced diet.

Q4: What is the difference between lentils and pigeon peas?

A4: While both are legumes and have similarities like nutritional content and culinary use, they differ in taste, appearance, and growing conditions. Pigeon peas have a nutty, earthy flavor, whereas lentils have a milder, slightly peppery taste.