Split peas and lentils can be included in a healthy eating plan. They can be interchangeable in recipes. However, it’s important to note that a lentil retains more firmness than a split pea when cooked. This can somewhat alter the texture of dishes such as soups. Split peas are a type of field pea that is grown specifically for drying. While also a legume, a lentil is harvested as the seed of a plant then dried.
Color Differences in Peas
If you find yourself trying to choose between yellow split peas and green split peas, don’t get overly concerned with the selection process. There is minimal difference in the two peas. Both colors are highly nutritious. The two colors require the same amount of cooking time with no presoaking necessary. Some people think yellow split peas have a slightly sweeter flavor than green split peas, but most people can’t detect a difference.
Colored Lentils
There are several characteristic differences in brown and a green lentils. The brown variety is the smaller of the two and has a subtle, earthy flavor, while the green variety has a more pronounced and distinctive peppery taste. The brown variety has a higher fiber content. Green lentils require a longer cooking time than the brown variety.
Nutritional Comparison
When you add green or brown lentils or yellow or green split peas to your next soup or stew, you’ll boost the nutritional value of the dish. The peas are rich in vitamins A, C, and K and the fat-soluble vitamins B1, B2, and B3. They are also a good source of calcium. Brown and green lentils are a source of protein, fiber, folate, potassium, iron, and copper. They also provide vitamin B5 and B9.
Health Benefits
Having a supply of these healthy legumes on hand can be beneficial to your overall health. Unlike other beans and peas, these don’t require soaking, so you don’t have to plan ahead when you want to use them. Together they provide health benefits such helping prevent cancer, supporting heart and digestive health, promoting strong bones, aiding in the management of blood sugar and blood pressure, and supporting the immune system.
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