Pigeon peas, known as Tuver or Toor Dal in India (Cajanus cajan), are a type of legume that has been cultivated for thousands of years in tropical and subtropical regions. They are a staple ingredient in many Indian dishes, especially in South and Western Indian cuisines. Pigeon peas are highly valued for their rich protein content and their versatility in various culinary applications, from soups and stews to dals and curries.
Key Characteristics of Pigeon Peas (Toor Dal/Tuver):
Appearance:
Shape: Round to oval-shaped with a smooth outer surface.
Size: Small to medium-sized, usually 4-8 mm in diameter.
Color: The whole pigeon pea is beige or light brown, but when split and hulled, the inner dal is yellow.
Texture:
Raw: Hard and firm when dried.
Cooked: Soft and mushy, breaking down easily when boiled or pressure-cooked, making it ideal for dals and stews.
Aroma: Pigeon peas have a mild, earthy aroma that intensifies slightly when cooked.
Flavor: The flavor of pigeon peas is mildly nutty and earthy. When cooked, they absorb spices well and add a creamy texture to dishes.
Specification:
Culinary Uses:
Toor Dal: The most common use of pigeon peas in India, particularly in the making of toor dal, a staple lentil dish cooked with spices and often served with rice or roti.
Soups and Stews: Pigeon peas are used in various soups and stews, contributing a hearty texture.
Curries: In South Indian and Gujarati cuisine, pigeon peas are used in sambhar and dal tadka.
Flour: In some regions, pigeon peas are ground into flour and used in baking or for making traditional snacks.
Nutritional Value:Pigeon peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them an essential part of vegetarian diets. They are also rich in dietary fiber, iron, folate, magnesium, potassium, and vitamin B. Their high protein and fiber content aid digestion and help control blood sugar levels, making them a nutritious option for maintaining a balanced diet.
Varieties:
Whole Pigeon Peas: Used in stews and soups, often with the skin on.
Split Pigeon Peas (Toor Dal): The most common form, used in various dal preparations.
Benefits:
Pigeon peas are rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They offer numerous health benefits, including supporting digestion, boosting immunity, and reducing inflammation.
Cultivate Seasons for India:
Pigeon peas are typically cultivated during the kharif season in India, with sowing usually done in June-July and harvesting in October-November.
Our Services
Reliable Sourcing:
Reliable sourcing of pigeon peas (Tuver or Toor Dal) in India involves working with trusted suppliers and farmers from regions known for high-quality legume production, such as Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh. These regions offer ideal soil conditions and climate for growing pigeon peas, which ensures the beans have optimal nutritional content and flavor. Ensuring that farmers follow Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and sustainable farming methods, free from synthetic fertilizers and harmful pesticides, is key to maintaining the quality of the harvest. Transparent supply chains and partnerships with certified suppliers allow for traceability and ensure that the pigeon peas are harvested at the right maturity to preserve their taste, texture, and nutritional value.
Premium Quality Assurance:
Premium quality assurance for pigeon peas begins with thorough testing and inspection at various stages of production. The beans are initially checked for uniformity in size, color, and shape. Moisture content is closely monitored, typically kept under 12%, to avoid spoilage during storage. The pigeon peas are also tested for contaminants, such as pesticides, aflatoxins, and heavy metals, ensuring they are safe for consumption. Their protein and fiber content is analyzed to ensure the beans meet nutritional standards. Proper drying and storage techniques are employed to prevent moisture accumulation and mold growth. The beans are packaged in food-grade, airtight packaging to preserve freshness and nutritional value. Certifications like ISO, HACCP, and FSSAI further guarantee that the pigeon peas meet global food safety and quality standards.
Process:
The processing of pigeon peas starts with careful harvesting when the pods are fully mature and dry. After harvesting, the peas are sun-dried to reduce moisture content and increase shelf life. The dried pigeon peas are then cleaned using mechanical methods to remove dirt, stones, and foreign matter. After cleaning, the beans are sorted based on size, color, and quality. In some cases, the pigeon peas are dehulled and split to create toor dal, which is widely used in Indian cuisine. Throughout this process, regular quality checks are conducted to ensure the beans remain free from impurities and contaminants. Once processed, the pigeon peas are packaged in moisture-resistant, food-grade containers to maintain their quality. Proper labeling and storage in cool, dry environments further ensure that the pigeon peas retain their nutritional integrity and flavor until they reach the market.
Packaging, Shipping & Delivery
Packaging:
Bags and Pouches:
For Pigeon Peas, high-quality food-grade materials such as laminated multi-layer pouches (made of materials like PET, PE, BOPP, and Aluminum foil) are used. These bags are moisture-proof and help retain the freshness, flavor, and aroma of the spices. Zip-lock pouches, stand-up pouches, and resealable bags are also popular for smaller quantities.
Polypropylene (PP) Woven Bags:
These are the most common types of bags used for packaging large quantities (25 kg and 40 kg) of Pigeon Peas. They are made of woven polypropylene material, which is strong, lightweight, and durable, providing excellent resistance to tearing and damage during handling and transport.
Laminated Bags:
For additional protection against moisture and humidity, PP woven bags can be laminated with a layer of plastic film. This lamination creates a barrier against moisture, ensuring the spices stay dry and fresh during transportation and storage.
Multi-Wall Paper Bags:
These bags consist of several layers of kraft paper, which provide strength and are often lined with a plastic or polyethylene layer to offer protection against moisture and humidity. They are environmentally friendly and widely used in many markets for exporting food products.
Vacuum-Sealed Packaging:
This type of packaging removes air from the package before sealing, which helps prevent oxidation and moisture build-up, preserving the quality and extending the shelf life of the spices.
Paper or Carton Boxes:
After the packaging, the smaller bags or pouches are placed in corrugated cardboard cartons or paper boxes. These cartons are sturdy, stackable, and protect the contents from physical damage during handling and transportation.
Palletization and Wrapping:
Cartons or sacks are often stacked on wooden or plastic pallets and wrapped with stretch film or shrink wrap. This provides stability, reduces the risk of damage during transport, and makes handling more efficient.
Export Documentation:
Handle all necessary export documentation, including phytosanitary certificates, certificates of origin, and any specific certifications required by the importing country.
Efficient Shipping:
Partner with reliable freight forwarders and logistics companies to ensure timely and safe delivery of goods. Offer multiple shipping options (air, sea, or land) based on customer preferences.