TROPICAL FOOD PLANTS
Pulses: Beans, Lentils and Peas

Take your palate on a Sri Lankan culinary adventure, as we explore the world of pulses. While the term pulse may be unfamiliar, you likely have many pulses in your pantry right now. They are the edible seed of the legume plants (Fabaceae or Leguminosae family) such as beans, lentils and peas. Pulses are an important source of protein, vitamins, complex carbohydrates and fiber in the human diet. Because of their texture, flavor and nutritional content, they’re a staple of diets around the world, both vegan and non-vegan, and tropical varieties are used extensively in Sri Lankan cooking. Learn some new culinary uses for more familiar legume seeds, such as black-eyed peas, chick peas, lentils, soybeans, and lima beans. Discover some less familiar pulses, such as green gram, black gram, horse gram, and hyacinth bean. We’ll explore how to add these valuable food sources to your diet based on Sri Lankan cuisine and cooking styles. Sample some delicious curries, breakfast dishes, sprouts, sweets, and high protein, pulse-based flour goods. You’ll leave with new appreciation for Sri Lankan cuisine and recipes to add some exotic variety to your weekly dinner rotation!

Fees: Member $30, Non-Member $35

All programs are subject to change. Pre-registration through our website is required.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden strives to be a Garden for all and we are committed to offering diverse adult learning opportunities that are inclusive and accessible to all learners. If you would like to request an accommodation to support your participation in an adult learning opportunity at the Garden, please contact [email protected] or call 804-262-9887 x320 and we will make our best effort to help.