The pigeon pea is a legume shrub. They produce edible, small, round brown seeds. Prior to maturing, the seeds are a fresh green color, then they turn brown. They are also known as gandules in Latin America and have a variety of different names depending on the region of the world.
Origins & Cultivation
Pigeon peas have been cultivated for many years, with their origins likely staring out in South Asia or Africa. The peas have been cultivated in various parts of Africa and India, and over the years they have since stretched out to other regions of the world, such as Europe and Latin America.
Pigeon peas are a vital legume crop in many different regions of the world, such as the Caribbean, Latin America, and Africa. They are widely cultivated for their seeds and are mainly cultivated as a food crop. They are grown commercially in various parts of the world. Pigeon peas produce peas in edible pods and are grown in tropical regions.
Climate & Planting
Pigeon peas are grown in tropical and subtropical environments. It is a heat-tolerant shrub that can grow in a humid climate and hot environments. They are full-sun shrubs that require plenty of sun and thrive in sunshine.
It is best to plant pigeon peas in full sun. Pigeon plants can be planted in raised beds, plant pots, and in the ground. For ground planting, well-drained, dry soil is best for planting pigeon pea plants in the ground. Mulch can also be used for ground planting; this helps to contain weed growth and preserve the soil.
Food & Drink
There are a variety of ways to buy pigeon peas. - Canned pigeon peas (known brands include Goya pigeon peas and El Jibarito pigeon peas)
Pigeon peas are considered a valued nutritional legume and staple food. It is considered a vital food source that is an ideal legume for many vegetarians. Pigeon peas are a legume crop that is used in various cuisines from across the world, specifically in Puerto Rico and India.
Pigeon peas can be consumed in different ways: fresh, dried, or cooked. The fresh pigeon peas can be added to salads or enjoyed as a light snack. In addition, the peas can be added to soups and stews. Pigeon peas are commonly used in Caribbean, African, and Indian dishes. In India, pigeon peas are a major food item used in dishes such as dal. It is also prepared in various curry Indian dishes. Throughout Latin America, the peas are commonly served with rice, especially in the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. The arroz con gandules, which is rice with pigeon peas, is a popular and national dish of Puerto Rico. Recipe Ideas
International recipes
- Arroz con gandules (Puerto Rico & Latin America; rice with pigeon peas)
- Bharazi (East Africa; pigeon peas in coconut cream)
- Jamaican pigeon peas and rice
- Bahamian-style peas and rice
- Kadyos, Baboy, and Langka (a Filipino stew composed of pigeon peas and jackfruit)
Recipes
- Vegetarian rice and pigeon peas
- Stewed pigeon peas and squash
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