A half cup of purple hull peas weighing 126 g contains approximately 130 calories. Purple hull peas are a nutritional powerhouse loaded with essential vitamins and minerals.

These peas are a rich source of protein, fiber, and carbohydrates. They are also packed with vitamins A, C, K, and B vitamins, as well as iron, calcium, and potassium. Purple hull peas are also low in fat and calories.

In this article, we will discuss the nutritional value, a brief history, health benefits, and various ways to cook and incorporate purple hull peas into your diet.

Nutritional Value of Purple Hull Peas

Purple hull peas are a great source of nutrition as they contain several essential vitamins and minerals. They are also naturally low in fat and calories. Here are some of the nutritional values of purple hull peas: - Calories: 130 - Protein: 8g - Carbohydrates: 24g - Fiber: 8g - Fat: 1g - Iron: 2mg (15% of the daily value) - Calcium: 47mg (4% of the daily value) - Potassium: 299mg (6% of the daily value) - Vitamin A: 1288 IU (26% of the daily value) - Vitamin C: 8mg (10% of the daily value) - Vitamin B6: 0.3mg (14% of the daily value)

A Brief History of Purple Hull Peas

Purple hull peas are believed to have originated in Africa and then were brought to America during the slave trade. They became popular in the southern United States due to their versatility, taste, and nutritional value. They are called 'purple hull' peas due to the bright purple hull that surrounds the pale-green pea. They were traditionally grown in family gardens and were often dried or canned to be eaten throughout the year. Today, purple hull peas are a staple in southern cooking and are enjoyed across the country.

How to Cook Purple Hull Peas

Cooking purple hull peas is easy and can be done in several ways. Here's a simple recipe for cooking them: - Rinse 1/2 cup of dried purple hull peas and soak them in a bowl of water overnight. - Drain the peas and rinse them again. - In a pot, add the peas and enough water to cover them. Bring the pot to a boil. - Lower the heat to a simmer and let the peas cook for 45 minutes to an hour, until they are tender. - Drain the water and season the peas with salt and pepper as desired. Purple hull peas can also be cooked in a pressure cooker, slow cooker or baked in the oven. They can be added to salads, soups, stews, casseroles, or served as a side dish.

Health Benefits of Purple Hull Peas

Purple hull peas are a great addition to any diet. Here are some of the health benefits that they offer: - Rich in protein, fiber, and carbohydrates, which help keep you full and satisfied. - Low in fat and calories, making them an excellent food choice for people who are trying to lose weight. - High in iron, which helps your body produce red blood cells and essential for carrying oxygen throughout the body. - Contains calcium and potassium, which are necessary for healthy bones and muscle function. - Contains vitamins A, C, K, and B vitamins, which are essential for overall health and wellness.

Purple Hull Peas as a Source of Protein

Purple hull peas are an excellent source of protein, especially for vegetarians and vegans who may not eat animal products. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in your body. Purple hull peas are a complete protein, meaning they contain all nine essential amino acids that are necessary for proper body functioning. A half-cup serving of cooked purple hull peas contains 8 grams of protein, making them an excellent source of plant-based protein.

Why Purple Hull Peas are Good for the Heart

Purple hull peas are good for the heart due to their high fiber and antioxidant content. The high fiber content in purple hull peas helps to lower cholesterol levels in the body. A higher intake of fiber lowers the risk of developing heart disease. The antioxidants in purple hull peas help to prevent free radical damage in the body, which can lead to inflammation and damage to the cardiovascular system.

Purple Hull Peas and Digestive Health

Fiber is an essential nutrient for digestive health, and purple hull peas are an excellent source of fiber. Fiber helps to keep your digestive system healthy by promoting regular bowel movements, preventing constipation, and reducing the risk of developing digestive disorders such as diverticulitis and irritable bowel syndrome. Purple hull peas are also low in fat, making them a good food choice for people with digestive issues.

Ways to Incorporate Purple Hull Peas into Your Diet

There are various ways to incorporate the nutrient-rich purple hull peas into your diet. Here are a few suggestions: - Add cooked purple hull peas to salads, soups, and stews. - Serve them as a side dish instead of rice, pasta, or potatoes. - Blend them with spices and herbs to make a flavorful dip. - Use them as a base for veggie burgers or add them to vegetarian chili. - Bake them in the oven with a little olive oil and your favorite seasoning.

Purple Hull Peas for Weight Loss

Purple hull peas are a great food choice for people who are trying to lose weight. They are low in calories but high in fiber, which helps to keep you full and satisfied. The high fiber content also slows down digestion, which can reduce hunger and lead to eating fewer calories throughout the day. Additionally, purple hull peas are a good source of protein, which can help to build and maintain lean muscle mass while losing weight.

How to Store Purple Hull Peas

If you have dried purple hull peas, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to a year. If you have cooked purple hull peas, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or in the freezer for up to six months. When freezing purple hull peas, be sure to freeze them in individual portions to make for easier meal prep.