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The purple pea is a purple pod that grows on a legume plant and is considered more strongly flavored than other peas. It grows best in moderate climates and is thought to have originated in Africa. It can be purchased fresh, frozen, dried, or canned and is high in protein.
The purple pea, also commonly referred to as southern or cow pea, is a purple-colored pod that grows on a flowering legume plant. These plants tend to grow most successfully in moderate climates. Purple peas are in the same family as black-eyed peas and peas, but tend to be considered more strongly flavored when cooked.
Because purple pea plants tend to tolerate moderate weather conditions the most effectively, farmers generally recommend planting the plant seeds when there is a combination of sunlight and cooler temperatures. Spring is one of the most commonly recommended optimal times for planting purple peas. Plants tend to grow best when seeds are planted in early April through late May. Since the seeds grow in a flowering vine that contains the pea pods, it is also usually recommended to place wire or wooden stakes near the seed location to provide the vine with a stable area to grow and climb.
The purple pea plant is thought to have originated in Africa, specifically in the country of Nigeria. While this tends to be the most commonly accepted theory, botanists have been unable to conclusively prove its origins. Botanists who have studied the history of purple peas tend to believe that the plant spread throughout the Western world when Africans were forced into slavery in other countries. The purple pea was historically thought to be a major staple of the diets of slaves, who may not have been given meat.
Once harvested, purple peas are commercially sold in a variety of forms. They can be purchased fresh or frozen, particularly if a person lives near a farm that grows peas. Purple pea can also be purchased dried or canned, which tends to be the more common form for areas that may not have nearby pea crops.
The preparation method for purple peas will usually depend on the form in which they are purchased. If the peas are dried, they require soaking overnight to hydrate them enough for consumption. Fresh, frozen, or canned peas can generally be steamed, boiled, or sauteed in butter or oil until soft enough to eat. Since purple peas are high in protein, they can be eaten as a main appetizer or used as a meat substitute. The flavor tends to pair well with onion, garlic, and pork.
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