Yellow split peas are a great source of plant-based protein and high in fiber, making it a healthy addition to your diet. With only 180 calories per 1/4 cup (50 g) serving, it's a nutritious alternative to meat-based proteins.
These legumes are packed with essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants which have numerous health benefits. One serving of yellow split peas contains 13.6 grams of protein, 8.1 grams of dietary fiber, and is low in fat.
In this article, we'll explore some ways you can incorporate yellow split peas into your diet while also uncovering their potential benefits for your health.
Health benefits of yellow split peas
Yellow split peas are full of essential nutrients and minerals that contribute to the overall well-being of individuals. They are packed with dietary fiber and are low in glycemic index, which makes them a suitable food for people with diabetes. These legumes also contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. Moreover, yellow split peas are high in folate, which is an essential nutrient that helps maintain brain health and perform other critical functions in our body. Research has shown that consuming yellow split peas regularly may help lower cholesterol levels, maintain healthy body weight, and lower the risk of certain cancers. The high fiber content in yellow split peas helps regulate digestion and promotes satiety, making you feel fuller for longer. Likewise, the protein present in these legumes can aid in building and repairing muscles after workouts, which makes it an ideal food for athletes and bodybuilders. Overall, incorporating yellow split peas into your meals can contribute to a well-rounded, nutrient-dense diet that helps sustain optimal health.
Yellow split peas soup recipe
Yellow split pea soup is a flavorful and nutritious meal that's easy to prepare. Here's a simple recipe that you can try at home: - Soak 1 cup of yellow split peas overnight, and rinse them thoroughly. - In a large pot, sauté 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves in 1 tablespoon of olive oil until soft. Add 4 cups of vegetable broth, 1 cup diced carrots, 1 cup diced celery, 1 bay leaf, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon of thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil before adding the yellow split peas to the pot. Lower the heat and allow it to simmer for around 45 minutes until the peas and vegetables are soft.
How to cook yellow split peas
To cook yellow split peas, follow these simple steps: - Rinse the yellow split peas under cold water and let them soak for around 8 hours, or overnight for better results. - After soaking, drain the water, rinse again, and add fresh water to a pot. Use a 2:1 ratio, so 2 parts water to 1 part yellow split peas.
Adding yellow split peas to your diet
Yellow split peas are incredibly versatile and can be used in various recipes, from soups and stews to salads and even as a snack. Here are some ideas to add yellow split peas to your diet: - Add them to soups and stews in place of meat for a plant-based protein source. - Use split yellow peas in dips, sauces and spreads.
Yellow split peas vs chickpeas
Yellow split peas and chickpeas are both excellent sources of plant-based protein and fiber. However, they do differ in terms of nutritional content and taste. Here are some key differences: - Yellow split peas contain slightly more protein (13.6g) per 1/4 cup serving than chickpeas (12g). - Chickpeas have a higher fat content (4g) than yellow split peas (1.2g) per 1/4 cup serving.
Yellow split peas for weight loss
Yellow split peas are incredibly nutrient-dense and packed with fiber, which can help regulate digestion and promote satiety. Fiber also slows down the absorption of carbohydrates, which can help stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent overeating. The high protein content in yellow split peas also contributes to increased feelings of fullness and can aid in building and repairing muscles. Moreover, yellow split peas are low in fat, making them an excellent food to add to your weight loss diet. By replacing high-calorie meat-based proteins with yellow split peas, you can enjoy a satisfying meal with fewer calories. Incorporating yellow split peas into your meals and snacks can help support your weight loss efforts and promote overall health.
Yellow split peas for muscle building
Yellow split peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, which contributes to building and repairing muscles. One serving of yellow split peas contains all the essential amino acids required for optimal muscle growth and development. Additionally, yellow split peas are high in other essential nutrients such as iron, folate, and potassium, which are essential for muscle contraction, recovery, and overall health. Overall, incorporating yellow split peas into your diet can aid in muscle building, enhance recovery, and support optimal performance during workouts.
Yellow split peas for vegans
Yellow split peas are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and other essential nutrients that are often deficient in vegan diets. One serving of yellow split peas contains about 13.6 grams of protein, which is essential in maintaining muscle mass, repairing tissues, and supporting overall growth and development. Additionally, yellow split peas contain other essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, and potassium, which are often insufficient in plant-based diets. By incorporating yellow split peas into your meals, you can ensure that you're meeting all your nutritional needs and supporting overall health. Yellow split peas are versatile and can be used in various vegan recipes, from soups and stews to salads and spreads. Overall, yellow split peas are an excellent addition to a vegan diet, providing essential nutrients that are vital for optimal health.
Yellow split peas for heart health
Yellow split peas are an excellent source of essential nutrients such as fiber, potassium, and folate, which are essential for maintaining heart health. Dietary fiber helps regulate digestion and lower cholesterol levels, while potassium helps regulate blood pressure, and folate helps reduce the risk of heart disease. Research has shown that incorporating yellow split peas into your diet may reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke by lowering blood pressure, regulating cholesterol levels, and improving insulin resistance. Overall, adding yellow split peas to your meals is a great way to support overall heart health and contribute to a balanced, nutrient-dense diet.
Yellow split peas and diabetes
Yellow split peas have a low glycemic index, which means that they release glucose into the bloodstream slowly and steadily. This property makes yellow split peas a suitable food for people with diabetes as it helps regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, yellow split peas are rich in dietary fiber, which hinders the absorption of carbohydrates and helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome. Fiber also promotes satiety, making you feel fuller for longer and helping to regulate appetite and food intake. Overall, incorporating yellow split peas into your diet can be a smart way to maintain healthy blood sugar levels while supplying essential nutrients to the body.
Yellow split peas are a nutrient-dense food that offers numerous health benefits while also being versatile and easy to incorporate into your diet.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Yellow Split Peas
1. What Are Yellow Split Peas?
Yellow split peas are a type of legume that come from the dried, peeled and split seeds of the Pisum sativum plant. They are a part of the family of beans and peas, also known as pulses, that are frequently used in various cuisines around the world.
2. What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Yellow Split Peas?
Yellow split peas are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates, making them a great food for promoting fullness and weight management. They also contain a host of essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, vitamin B6, and potassium, that can help support a healthy diet and lifestyle.
3. How Do You Cook Yellow Split Peas?
To cook yellow split peas, rinse them with cold water and then soak them overnight in water. When you're ready to cook them, drain the water and add the split peas to a pot with fresh water. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat and let the peas simmer until tender, which usually takes about 30-40 minutes. Once they're cooked, you can season them with herbs, spices, or broth to create a tasty and nutritious dish.
4. What Are Some Popular Recipes That Use Yellow Split Peas?
Yellow split peas are a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different recipes. Some popular dishes that feature yellow split peas include split pea soup, Indian dal, Turkish kofte, and Ethiopian kik wot. They can also be used to make veggie burgers, stews, and curries.
5. Are Yellow Split Peas Safe for Everyone to Eat?
While yellow split peas are generally safe to eat, some people may experience digestive issues if they consume them in large quantities or if they're not cooked properly. People who have a history of kidney stones or are taking certain medications should also consult with their doctor before adding yellow split peas to their diet, as they contain a moderate amount of oxalates that can contribute to kidney stone formation.