What Are Cowpeas?
Despite their name, cowpeas are actually a type of bean! Cowpeas are a type of bean that grows inside long green pods. One popular variety is the crowder pea, which gets its name because the peas are crowded tightly together inside the pod, causing them to develop a slightly squared-off shape. Cowpeas are also often called Southern peas, field peas, or crowder peas.
How Do They Grow?
Cowpeas thrive in hot summer weather and do not need a ton of water to grow, making them good for warm climates.
What Do They Taste Like?
Cowpeas have a savory, earthy, and slightly nutty flavor. Their creamy texture and hearty taste make them a popular ingredient in Southern cooking, soups, stews, salads, and side dishes.
What are the health benefits?
Cowpeas are an excellent source of protein, which helps build and repair muscles and tissues. They are also rich in fiber, which supports healthy digestion and helps you feel full longer. In addition, cowpeas provide important nutrients such as iron, which helps carry oxygen throughout the body, and potassium, which supports healthy muscles, nerves, and heart function.
How Can You Use Them?
Cowpeas are an ingredient that can be enjoyed in many ways. They can be cooked and served as a side dish, added to soups and stews, mixed into salads, or served over rice. They pair well with vegetables, herbs, and seasonings commonly used in Southern cuisine.
Storage Tips
Fresh cowpeas should be shelled and refrigerated if they will be used within a few days. For longer storage, they can be blanched- a cooking technique of briefly cooking a food in boiling water and quickly cooling it in ice water- and frozen. Dried cowpeas can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for several months.
Recipes:
This Southern Salad with Buttermilk Dressing would be a great recipe using cowpeas!