Olivia Carter
If you’re a fan of Indian and Caribbean cuisine, then you’re probably familiar with pigeon peas. These small, nutty legumes are packed with protein and are a great addition to soups, stews, and rice dishes. While they can be cooked on the stovetop, using a pressure cooker can significantly reduce the cooking time and result in tender, flavorful peas.
So, how long do you need to cook pigeon peas in a pressure cooker? The answer depends on the type of pressure cooker you’re using and how tender you like your peas. On average, pigeon peas take about 15-20 minutes to cook in a pressure cooker on high pressure.
Before cooking your pigeon peas, it’s important to rinse them thoroughly and remove any debris or stones. You can also soak them overnight to reduce the cooking time further. Once you’ve prepped your pigeon peas, simply add them to the pressure cooker along with enough water to cover the peas by about an inch.
Next, secure the lid of the pressure cooker and set it to high pressure. Cook the peas for about 15-20 minutes, depending on your preferences. If you like your peas to be softer, you can cook them for a few additional minutes. Once the cooking time is up, release the pressure using the quick-release method or allow the pressure to naturally release.
Once the pressure has been released, carefully open the pressure cooker and check the doneness of the pigeon peas. They should be tender and can easily be mashed with a fork. If they’re not quite done, you can cook them for a few more minutes. Remember that cooking times may vary depending on the brand and size of your pressure cooker, so it’s always a good idea to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Now that you know how long to cook pigeon peas in a pressure cooker, you can enjoy their delicious flavor in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re making a comforting curry or a hearty rice dish, pigeon peas are sure to add a unique and tasty twist to your recipes.
Quick and Easy Pigeon Peas Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to cook pigeon peas, a pressure cooker is the perfect tool. Not only does it significantly reduce the cooking time, but it also helps to make the peas tender and flavorful. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious dish that is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pigeon peas | 1 cup |
| Water | 3 cups |
| Onion | 1 small, finely chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Tomato | 1 medium, diced |
| Green chili | 1, sliced |
| Tumeric | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
Instructions:
- Start by rinsing the pigeon peas and soaking them in water for about 30 minutes. This will help to soften them
- Heat oil in the pressure cooker and add the chopped onions. Sauté until they become translucent
- Add the minced garlic, diced tomatoes, and sliced green chili. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes soften
- Next, add the soaked pigeon peas along with the water they were soaked in. Also, add the turmeric, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well
- Cover the pressure cooker with its lid and cook on high heat until you hear the first whistle. Once the whistle blows, reduce the heat to low and continue cooking for about 10-12 minutes
- Turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. Once the pressure is released, open the lid and give everything a good stir. The pigeon peas should be tender and cooked through
- Your quick and easy pigeon peas are ready to be served. Garnish with some chopped coriander leaves and serve it hot with rice or roti
This quick and easy pigeon peas recipe is perfect for when you’re short on time but still want a delicious and nutritious meal. The pressure cooker does all the work, leaving you with tender and flavorful pigeon peas that are great as a main dish or a side. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the taste of these versatile legumes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Pigeon Peas in a Pressure Cooker
Pigeon peas are a delicious and nutritious legume that can be cooked quickly and easily in a pressure cooker. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you cook perfect pigeon peas every time.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried pigeon peas
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
Instructions:
- Start by rinsing the dried pigeon peas under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- In your pressure cooker, add the rinsed pigeon peas, water, salt, bay leaf, cumin powder, and turmeric powder.
- Close the lid of the pressure cooker and make sure it is securely locked.
- Turn on the heat to high and wait for the pressure cooker to reach high pressure.
- Once the pressure cooker has reached high pressure, reduce the heat to low and set a timer for 15 minutes.
- Allow the pigeon peas to cook under pressure for the full 15 minutes.
- After the cooking time is complete, turn off the heat and carefully release the pressure from the pressure cooker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Once the pressure is fully released, open the lid of the pressure cooker and check the doneness of the pigeon peas.
- If the pigeon peas are not fully cooked, close the lid and cook them for an additional 5 minutes under pressure.
- Once the pigeon peas are cooked to your desired tenderness, drain any excess liquid from the pressure cooker and discard the bay leaf.
- Your delicious pigeon peas are now ready to be enjoyed as a side dish, in soups, or in your favorite recipes!
| Pressure Cooker Type | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| Stovetop Pressure Cooker | 15 minutes |
| Electric Pressure Cooker | 20 minutes |
By following this step-by-step guide, you can easily cook pigeon peas in your pressure cooker and enjoy their delicious flavor and texture. Whether you serve them as a side dish or incorporate them into your favorite recipes, pigeon peas are a versatile and nutritious ingredient.
Tips and Tricks for Perfectly Cooked Pigeon Peas
Preparing pigeon peas in a pressure cooker is a quick and efficient way to enjoy this nutritious legume. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure your pigeon peas are perfectly cooked every time:
1. Soaking the Pigeon Peas
Before cooking, it is recommended to soak the pigeon peas for at least 1 hour. This helps soften the peas and reduces the cooking time in the pressure cooker. If you’re short on time, you can use the quick-soaking method by bringing the peas to a boil and then letting them sit for 10 minutes.
2. Use the Right Ratio of Water
For perfectly cooked pigeon peas, use a 1:2 ratio of peas to water. This means for every cup of pigeon peas, add 2 cups of water to the pressure cooker. This ratio ensures that the peas are fully cooked and have a tender texture.
3. Cooking Time
The cooking time for pigeon peas in a pressure cooker varies depending on the specific model and size. As a general guideline, cook the soaked pigeon peas on high pressure for 10-15 minutes. Let the pressure naturally release for about 10 minutes before opening the cooker. This allows for perfect cooking and even texture.
4. Seasoning and Flavoring
Add flavour to your pigeon peas by seasoning them with spices like cumin, turmeric, coriander, and garlic. You can also add a bay leaf or a small piece of ginger for extra aroma. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
5. Storing Cooked Pigeon Peas
If you have leftovers or want to meal prep, store the cooked pigeon peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Thaw and reheat the peas before using them in your desired recipes.
| Quantity of Pigeon Peas | Quantity of Water | Cooking Time (High Pressure) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 cup | 2 cups | 10-15 minutes |
| 2 cups | 4 cups | 12-18 minutes |
| 3 cups | 6 cups | 15-20 minutes |
| 4 cups | 8 cups | 18-25 minutes |
By following these tips and tricks, you can enjoy perfectly cooked pigeon peas in your pressure cooker. Experiment with different spices and seasonings to customize the flavor to your liking. Pigeon peas make a delicious addition to soups, stews, rice dishes, and salads.
FAQ
How long should I cook pigeon peas in a pressure cooker?
You should cook pigeon peas in a pressure cooker for about 15 minutes on high pressure.
Does cooking pigeon peas in a pressure cooker make them softer?
Yes, cooking pigeon peas in a pressure cooker helps to soften them and reduce the cooking time.
