Canned Drained Pigeon Peas
Cajanus cajanClinical Encyclopedia
Canned drained pigeon peas are a nutritious legume option, rich in protein and fiber, making them an excellent addition to various dishes. They are low in fat and provide essential vitamins and minerals.
Macronutrient Ratio
Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g
Micronutrient DV% Score
Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value
Complete Micronutrient Breakdown
Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.
Vitamins
Minerals
Health Benefits
Possible Risks & Side Effects
How to Prepare & Consume
Rinse before use to reduce sodium content; can be added to salads, soups, or stews.
Smart Selection & Storage
Choose cans that are free from dents and rust, and check the expiration date.
Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place; refrigerate after opening.
Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds
Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.
Helps in lowering cholesterol levels.
Exhibit antioxidant properties.
"Pigeon peas are one of the oldest cultivated legumes, dating back over 3,500 years."
Myths vs Realities
Healthy Recipes
Pigeon Pea and Quinoa Salad
A refreshing salad combining protein-rich quinoa and canned pigeon peas, tossed with vibrant vegetables and a zesty lemon dressing.
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 can drained pigeon peas (15 oz)
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, drained pigeon peas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
- 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve chilled.
Spicy Pigeon Pea Tacos
Flavorful tacos filled with spiced pigeon peas, topped with avocado and fresh cilantro for a nutritious twist.
- 1 can drained pigeon peas (15 oz)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges for serving
- 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the drained pigeon peas, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
- 2. Warm the corn tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
- 3. Assemble the tacos by filling each tortilla with the spiced pigeon peas, avocado slices, and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.
Pigeon Pea and Vegetable Stir-Fry
A quick and colorful stir-fry featuring pigeon peas and a medley of fresh vegetables, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
- 1 can drained pigeon peas (15 oz)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Cooked brown rice for serving
- 1. In a large pan, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot, and stir-fry for 5 minutes.
- 2. Add the drained pigeon peas, soy sauce, and grated ginger. Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes until heated through.
- 3. Serve the stir-fry over cooked brown rice.
Pigeon Pea Hummus
A nutritious twist on traditional hummus, using pigeon peas for a protein-packed dip that's perfect with veggies or pita.
- 1 can drained pigeon peas (15 oz)
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
- 1. In a food processor, combine the drained pigeon peas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
- 2. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to reach desired consistency.
- 3. Serve with fresh vegetables or pita bread.
Pigeon Pea and Spinach Curry
A hearty and flavorful curry made with pigeon peas and spinach, served with brown rice for a wholesome meal.
- 1 can drained pigeon peas (15 oz)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 can coconut milk (13.5 oz)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Cooked brown rice for serving
- 1. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
- 2. Add the curry powder and cook for an additional minute before adding the drained pigeon peas and coconut milk.
- 3. Stir in the spinach and simmer for 10 minutes. Serve over cooked brown rice.
Pigeon Pea Veggie Burgers
Delicious and healthy veggie burgers made with pigeon peas, oats, and spices, perfect for grilling or baking.
- 1 can drained pigeon peas (15 oz)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Whole grain buns for serving
- 1. In a bowl, mash the drained pigeon peas with a fork. Add oats, onion, bell pepper, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- 2. Form the mixture into patties and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- 3. Cook the patties on a grill or skillet until golden brown on both sides. Serve on whole grain buns.
Mediterranean Pigeon Pea Bowl
A vibrant bowl filled with pigeon peas, roasted vegetables, and a tangy dressing, perfect for meal prep.
- 1 can drained pigeon peas (15 oz)
- 1 cup roasted zucchini
- 1 cup roasted bell peppers
- 1/4 cup feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked farro or quinoa for serving
- 1. In a bowl, combine the drained pigeon peas, roasted zucchini, roasted bell peppers, and feta cheese.
- 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Drizzle the dressing over the bowl and serve over cooked farro or quinoa.
Pigeon Pea and Sweet Potato Mash
A creamy and nutritious mash combining pigeon peas and sweet potatoes, perfect as a side dish.
- 1 can drained pigeon peas (15 oz)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. Boil sweet potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to pot.
- 2. Add the drained pigeon peas and olive oil to the sweet potatoes, and mash until smooth.
- 3. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.
Pigeon Pea Stuffed Bell Peppers
Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of pigeon peas, rice, and spices, baked to perfection.
- 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
- 1 can drained pigeon peas (15 oz)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, combine the drained pigeon peas, cooked rice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- 2. Stuff each bell pepper half with the pigeon pea mixture and place in a baking dish. Top with cheese if desired.
- 3. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender and cheese is melted.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are canned pigeon peas healthy?
Yes, they are low in fat and high in protein and fiber.
How should I store canned pigeon peas?
Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place; once opened, refrigerate and consume within 3-4 days.
Can I eat canned pigeon peas straight from the can?
Yes, but it's recommended to rinse them to reduce sodium.
What are the health benefits of pigeon peas?
They are rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.
How do pigeon peas compare to other legumes?
They have a higher protein content than many other legumes.
Can pigeon peas help with weight loss?
Yes, their high fiber content can help you feel full longer.
Are pigeon peas gluten-free?
Yes, pigeon peas are naturally gluten-free.
What dishes can I make with canned pigeon peas?
They can be used in salads, soups, stews, and curries.