Is a pea a vegetable?

The pea, that small and green plant, is a familiar side dish and ingredient in many dishes. But is a pea a vegetable? The answer to this question is yes, the pea is a vegetable. Let’s take a closer look.

What is a vegetable?

Vegetables are plants or plant parts that are used as food. They can be leaves, roots, stems, flowers or seeds. Vegetables are an important part of a healthy diet, as they contain plenty of vitamins, minerals and fibers.

Pea classification

The pea (Pisum sativum) belongs to legumes, which are plants whose seeds develop into pods. Legumes also include beans, lentils and chickpeas. Peas are especially known for their high protein content and nutritional values.

Nutritional values ​​of peas

• Protein: Peas are an excellent source of plant protein, making them an important part of a vegetarian diet.
• Fibre: Peas contain a lot of fiber, which promotes digestion and helps keep blood sugar level.
• Vitamins and minerals: Peas are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, folate and iron.

Use of peas in cooking

Peas are used versatilely in cooking. They can be fresh, frozen or dried. Peas are added to soups, stews, salads and many other dishes. They are also a popular ingredient in veggie steaks and patties.

Summary

A pea is a vegetable that belongs to legumes. It is a nutritious and versatile ingredient that provides plenty of protein, fiber and important vitamins and minerals. Peas are an excellent addition to a healthy diet and can be used in many different ways in cooking.

You can read more information about peas and their nutritional values, for example, on the Ruokatieto website.