| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 55 mins | Difficulty: Moderate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 320 | 10g | 6g | 40g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 10g | 15g | 1.2g |
I’ve always had a soft spot for a hearty meal, and I believe they can be achieved in the most unexpected of places. Enter one of my newfound favorites: Pigeon Pea Curry. Now, this isn’t your typical Midwestern fare I grew up on, but there’s something irresistibly homey about its flavors. The enticing combination of ginger, garlic, and aromatic spices takes you for an unexpected culinary journey, but at its core is the humble pigeon pea – a nutritional powerhouse that is as wholesome as Nebraska’s golden cornfields.
From the Heartland to the Tropics
I first chanced upon Pigeon Pea Curry while searching for vegetarian alternatives for Sunday family dinners. My natural inclination towards the freshness of farm-to-table cuisine found a home in the tropical taste of pigeon peas. This legume originates from India, but can now be found in many parts of the world. It’s a staple in several Caribbean and African cuisines as well.
A Nutritional Powerhouse
What I love most about the Pigeon Pea Curry, besides itsrefreshing and bold flavors, is its nutritional value. Pigeon peas are a low-fat source of protein making it a guilt-free heartwarmer. Packed with fiber, potassium, and antioxidants, not only is it deliciou,s but also beneficial to overall health. The Healthline mentions that it may help reduce heart disease risk and manage blood sugar levels among other benefits.
A Versatile and Comforting Dish
From the soft texture of the pigeon peas to the chunky carrots and bell peppers simmered in a tomato base, every spoonful of Pigeon Pea Curry is comforting. And if I may say – it fits perfectly next to some classic cornbread or over brown rice, although traditional Indian rotis work just as well. It’s a vibrant, fiery, and yet comforting dish that fits right into my ever-evolving home recipes.
So, whether you’re looking for a wholesome meal to feed the family or exploring healthier alternatives with a twist, give Pigeon Pea Curry a try. Its irresistibly delectable and robust flavors paired with remarkable nutrition, makes it a recipe well worth loving.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups dried pigeon peas (gandules), soaked overnight
- 4 cups water
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 green chillies, slit lengthwise
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1/2 bell pepper, diced
- 2 teaspoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 can (13.5 ounces) coconut milk
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Method
Step One
Start by soaking the pigeon peas overnight. This will soften them and reduce the cooking time.
Step Two
The next day, drain the pigeon peas and put them in a large pot. Add 4 cups of water, bring to a boil, reduce heat, and let them simmer until they are tender. This might take about an hour.
Step Three
While the pigeon peas are cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a separate pot over a medium heat. Add the chopped onion, slit green chilies, minced garlic and minced ginger. Fry until the onion becomes translucent.
Step Four
Add the diced carrot, diced bell pepper and chopped tomatoes to the pot. Stir well and let it cook until the tomatoes are soft.
Step Five
Now it’s time to spice it up! Add the curry powder, turmeric powder, paprika, garam masala, and salt to taste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step Six
When the pigeon peas are cooked, drain them and add them to the pot with the other ingredients. Give everything a good stir to make sure the peas are well coated with the spices.
Step Seven
Pour in the coconut milk and stir again. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let everything simmer for about 20 minutes for the flavours to meld together.
Step Eight
Taste the curry and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you want a little more heat, add another slit green chili.
Step Nine
Finally, sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the curry just before serving. Enjoy your Pigeon Pea Curry with rice or naan bread!
