🌱 Pigeon peas, also known as Cajanus cajan, are a versatile legume widely cultivated and consumed across tropical and subtropical regions. In India, they're commonly called toor dal or arhar dal, and they’re a staple in many traditional dishes.
High in protein: About 21.7g per 100g of mature seeds
Rich in fiber: Supports digestion and gut health
Packed with minerals: Iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium
Contains essential amino acids: Including lysine, tryptophan, and methionine
Used in dal preparations across India
Added to soups, stews, and curries in Africa and the Caribbean
Can be consumed fresh, dried, or sprouted
Ground into flour or fermented into tempeh in Southeast Asia
Drought-tolerant and adaptable to poor soils
Improves soil fertility through nitrogen fixation
Often used as a cover crop or green manure
Used in Ayurveda for treating coughs, bronchitis, and inflammation
Leaves and roots have been used to treat diarrhea, jaundice, and skin conditions
