Split peas are legumes. They come from the same plant as peas. Their difference lies in the fact that the split peas are harvested when ripetheir protective membrane removed and their seeds cut in half.
Split peas are products that are rich in protein, fiber and carbohydrates. Coupled with cereals, they form a interesting alternative to meat. They also have a low glycemic index.
In addition, these peas are a nourishing food that is beneficial for transit and cardiovascular health. Like all legumes, they are also gluten-free.
Unlike other dry products, there is no no need to soak them before cooking. You can cook them:
- In a saucepan, with 5 volumes of cold water for 40 minutes;
- In a pressure cooker, with 3 volumes of water for 20 minutes (from pressurization);
They then cook in puree, in soup or even in pancakes. They go just as well with bacon or smoked sausages as with spices and coconut milk.
What health benefits?
Split peas contain vitamins A, C, K, E, B9, B6, B5, B3, B2, but also iron, copper, calcium, phosphorus, manganese, sulfur, magnesium, potassium and a good amount of fiber. Its richness in fibers but also in slow sugars makes it a nourishing and satiating food, perfect to avoid the little cravings during the day.
It is very suitable for people with diabetes, thanks to its glycemic index , she continues. The split pea also plays an interesting role in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. This is due in particular to vitamin C, which fights against lipid deposits in the arteries, manganese, which participates in the metabolism of cholesterol, and copper, which acts as an antioxidant and allows lipid metabolism.
Split peas are rich in vegetable protein, essential for the maintenance and renewal of muscles and mucous membranes. For them to be complete, just be sure to combine them with a starchy food (rice or bread for example). “The split pea preserves the health of the muscles thanks to its richness in magnesium, which helps muscle contraction, but also in potassium, which helps prevent and treat cramps” concludes Émilie Kapps. Finally, the magnesium it contains makes it an anti-stress food.
This slideshow offers you 9 recipe ideas based on split peas, from the traditional Saint-Germain soup to the most surprising vegetable terrine with zucchini.
