Chickpeas are the third largest legume in the world after soya and beans. They were one of the first foods of man; today they are very common in the Middle East and in India in whose diets they constitute a basic element.
Chickling vetch is an ancient, nourishing and healthy legume grown in Asia, Africa and Europe, with reference also to some areas of Italy. Its scientific name is Lathyrus sativus, but the chickling vetch is also known as guinea fowl or grass pea. To be precise, his name in India is Khesari.
Beans are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fiber, and are an essential part of any well-balanced diet. They are low in fat, full of healthy nutrients and contain few carbohydrates; they are also easy to cook and very versatile, they lend themselves to be eaten as aside dish and as a main course. Available: White Cannellini, Tondini, Cocos, Borlotti, Red, Black, Dark, Azuki.
The broad bean as a food plant has been used by man in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern area in very remote times. They are the first seeds of legumes consumed by man. Typical product of the diet in rural Italy. In ancient times it was used not only as a legume but, after having transformed it into flour, also in the preparation of bread, focaccia and polenta.
Lentils have been consumed since prehistoric times, and have always been considered the meat of the poor, were among the first legumes to be exploited in the food industry. They are the most digestible of all legumes. Lentils are very nutritious and energetic: 100 grams of product provide 291 kcal.
Lupines, like other legumes, are very energetic foods, contain many minerals, are rich in proteins, starches and sugars, iron, calcium, phosphorus and B vitamins. It is mainly cultivated in the Mediterranean and Middle East areas, thanks to its adaptability to acid and dry soils and to difficult and unfavourable climates. Lupines have a power.
Peas are known and appreciated all over the world, the typical recipes see them as protagonists in dishes of international flavor. As far as Italy is concerned, pea is one of the legumes known and used since ancient times, and it is currently widely cultivated in our country, in different varieties.
