Description

Cowpeas

Cowpeas or black-eyed peas as known in other regions are a legume that is consumed as a high-quality plant protein source in many parts of the world. It is commonly used as a cover crop. The common ones grown in Zambia are the red and white ones known as Msandile and the Lutembwe. Its high content of protein, fiber, and carbohydrates with relatively low-fat content and a complementary amino acid pattern to that of cereal grains, makes cowpea an important nutritional food in the human diet. Some of the known health properties include anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-hypertensive properties. It has also been known to regulate sugar levels and helps in weight maintenance, it is also known to help in cardiovascular diseases.

Uses

Cowpeas are commonly used as a ground cover as it has been found to be a natural nitrogen fixer. Cowpeas can also be consumed as a relish with either nshima, rice or potatoes. It is also ground in flour and mixed with another gluten-free flour to use for baking.