Green Pigeon Peas

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Green Pigeon Peas 

 A Simple Guide to This Nutritious Indian Pulse



    As a dietician with 20 years of experience in Indian kitchens, I often recommend green pigeon peas for everyday healthy cooking. They are traditional, affordable, and highly nutritious.

What are Green Pigeon Peas?

    Green pigeon peas are the fresh, unripe form of pigeon peas. In Tamil, they are called Pachai Thuvaram Paruppu. Unlike dry toor dal, these peas are green, soft, and slightly sweet in taste.

They are commonly used in South Indian cooking when they are freshly harvested.


Health Benefits of Green Pigeon Peas

Green pigeon peas are packed with nutrients that support overall health.

Key benefits:

  • Good source of plant protein for muscle strength

  • Rich in dietary fiber for better digestion

  • Helps in blood sugar control due to low glycaemic load

  • Supports heart health by reducing bad cholesterol

  • Contains iron, potassium, magnesium, and B vitamins

  • Keeps you full for longer, helpful for weight management

Because they are fresh, they are easier to digest than dried dals.


Who Should Include Green Pigeon Peas?

  • Children for growth and energy

  • Adults for daily protein needs

  • Diabetics (in moderate portions)

  • People with digestion issues

  • Vegetarians and vegans



Availability & Season

Green pigeon peas are seasonal.

  • Available mainly from December to February in India

  • Fresh pods are seen in local markets during winter

  • Outside season, they are rarely available fresh

Tip: You can sun-dry or freeze them for later use.


How to Cook Green Pigeon Peas

Green pigeon peas cook faster than dry dal.

Basic cooking method:

  1. Remove peas from pods and wash well

  2. Pressure cook with water, turmeric, and a little salt (2–3 whistles)

  3. Use in curries, sambar, kootu, or stir-fries

They have a mild taste and absorb spices well.


Popular Recipe Ideas Using Green Pigeon Peas

  • Green Pigeon Peas Sambar

  • Green Pigeon Peas Poriyal

  • Green Pigeon Peas Kootu

  • Vegetable Curry with Green Pigeon Peas

  • South Indian Style Dal with Fresh Peas

  • Green Pigeon Peas Rice

These recipes are nutritious and suitable for everyday meals.



Dietician’s Tip

    Fresh pulses like green pigeon peas provide better taste, nutrition, and digestion compared to heavily processed foods. Try to include seasonal foods whenever possible for better health.


Healthy traditional foods can nourish your body naturally.
Read my upcoming blogs to learn more about seasonal Indian foods and smart nutrition tips.

– Saranya, Dietician


Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

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