Legume | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Fat High Fiber

Pigeon Peas

Cajanus cajan Allergen-Free
pigeon peas

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Fabaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Caribbean|Indian|African
  • Seasonality Year-Round (dried/canned), Late Summer (fresh)
  • Source Pigeon Pea Plant

The Forktionary Angle

"Celebrating the global culinary backbone: the humble yet mighty pigeon pea."

Definition

Small, edible legumes cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions, notable for their nutty flavor and use in many global cuisines.

Sensory Profile

TasteEarthy, Nutty, Mildly Bitter
TextureFirm, Mealy (cooked), Starchy
AromaEarthy, Leguminous
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Cultivation Regions

India, Africa, Caribbean (major producers)

Protein Content (per 100g cooked)

~9.1g

Soaking Time (Dried)

8-12 hours (or overnight)

Nutrition Facts

Per 1/2 cup (80g cooked)
Calories130 kcal
Total Fat0.5g
Saturated Fat0.1g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein8.5g
Total Carbohydrate23g
Dietary Fiber8g
Total Sugars3g
Calcium20mg
Iron1.5mg
Potassium350mg

Chef’s Secret

For a richer flavor, toast dried pigeon peas lightly before soaking and cooking.

Substitutions

Best Match

Green or Brown Lentils

1:1

Similar texture and cooking time, slightly different flavor.

Split Peas

1:1

Good for thickening soups and stews, softer texture.

Black-Eyed Peas

1:1

Similar size and shape, slightly creamier texture, Southern US favorite.

Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans)

1:1

Larger, firmer, works well in stews, different flavor.

Buying Guide

Available dried, canned, or frozen. Dried require soaking and longer cooking. Canned are convenient.

Flavor Pairings

Rice coconut milk curry spices pork plantains adobo sofrito.

Recipes Using Pigeon Peas

Arroz Con Gandules Rice And Beans image 225
Puerto Rican Main Dish Savory Inexpensive

Arroz Con Gandules Rice And Beans

Experience the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rico with this authentic Arroz con Gandules recipe! This savory rice and pigeon peas dish is a beloved staple, bursting with the rich tastes of sofrito, ham, and olives. A comforting classic with many variations across Spanish-speaking countries, this version captures the true essence of Puerto Rican cuisine. Easy to follow instructions make this a perfect weeknight meal.

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Arroz Con Gandules Rice And Pigeon Peas A Puerto Rican Fav image 192
Time To Make Rice 60 Minutes Or Less Preparation

Arroz Con Gandules Rice And Pigeon Peas A Puerto Rican Fav

Experience the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rico with this authentic Arroz con Gandules recipe! A beloved staple, this hearty rice and pigeon pea dish is bursting with savory spices and tender grains. Perfect as a comforting weeknight meal or a show-stopping side for your next gathering. Learn how to make this classic recipe, from perfectly seasoned rice to achieving that desirable 'socarrat' (crispy bottom).

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Bahamian Peas And Rice image 243
Healthy 2 Time To Make Low Saturated Fat North American

Bahamian Peas And Rice

A vibrant and flavorful taste of the Bahamas! This hearty Bahamian Peas and Rice recipe is a Caribbean staple, easily adaptable for vegetarians. Enjoy tender rice, succulent peas, and a burst of fresh herbs in this classic dish. Inspired by the BBQ Bible, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Easily customizable – omit bacon for a vegetarian option!

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