What are pulses?
You know that they’re good for you, but are you able to pinpoint exactly what they are? Have no fear if you’re not a veg aficionado, Birds Eye are here with a simple definition:
Pulses are the dried seeds produced in pods which come from legumes.
This vast family of foods includes beans (kidney, adzuki, butter, haricot, etc.), broad beans, chickpeas and lentils, all of which are highly versatile and nutritious!
Why are pulses so important?
Pulses are perfect for a healthy, balanced diet, as they are plant protein sources that contain fibre, and they also provide a wealth of other nutrients.
So whether you’re using them as the base for your next soup or stew, blending them into a dip, or adding them to a variety of dishes for a nutritional boost, cooking with pulses is a new mealtime essential!
Across the world, governments are increasingly putting focus on the benefits of including plant-based foods in our meals, as well as following more sustainable diets. 2016 was even the United Nations International Year of Pulses! If you become a lover of lentils or any other pulses, not only will you have a tasty addition to your diet, you’ll also be helping the planet.
Cooking with pulses: How can you get your pulses fix with Birds Eye?
Now that we’ve got your attention, it’s time to set your pulse racing with some tasty Birds Eye products!
Our Mexican Bean Mix, Chickpea and Spinach Mix and Italian 3 Bean Mix are not only brimming with nutritional goodness, but they’re all also super convenient if you’re fretting about how to include some more veggie goodness into your family’s diet. Just stick them in the freezer, and when you’re ready to unleash that hearty protein, simply boil or microwave depending on which product you’ve picked!
This also means that there’s no need to soak dry pulses in advance or drain tins. Freeze. Cook. Eat. Repeat.
Looking for further inspiration? Check out our beans and pulses recipes!
Nutrition and protein in pulses
Still not completely swayed by the power of pulses? Here are some intriguing nutrition facts:
- Our pulses are frozen at their peak, meaning that key nutrients are locked in for when you cook them up at home.
- All pulses are naturally very low in sodium or sodium free – providing that extra taste without the salt!
- Pulses are plant proteins, and protein can help contribute to the maintenance of normal muscles and bones
- Chickpeas are a source of iron, which is needed for normal immunity, cognitive brain function, and formation of red blood cells.
All pulses are naturally gluten free, so people with coeliac disease or a gluten intolerance can still enjoy them!
- Broad beans are especially rich in pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), which contributes to normal mental performance and metabolism, and can help contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
- Lentils contain folate, which is needed for normal protein synthesis and cell division.
- Pulses count towards your 5-a-Day!
We hope that this has been a pulsating read to persuade you of the benefits of pulses, so get cooking with them now! After all, they’re made with love, from Birds Eye.