International Year of Pulses (IYP)

Did you know that 2016 is the United Nations International Year of Pulses (IYP)? No? Nor me until today! But how cool is that? A whole year devoted to pulses. It has even got its own hashtag - #IYP2016 

The IYP has been launched to increase the awareness of the general public of the benefits associated with pulses. This includes nutrition, sustainable food production and working towards securing food for the future. Did you know that pulses can improve soil fertility and promote biodiversity?

So what food is included? Pulses are part of the legume family which include edible beans, dried peas, lentils and chickpeas, all of which are nutritional powerhouses! Low in fat, high in fibre and B vitamins, a good source of iron and a great source of protein.

To celebrate the launch of IYP, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) have even created a short video highlighting the benefits of pulses. Food Tank have put together a list of how individuals can get involved too and celebrate the IYP2016. You can check out there list here. One way is to pledge eating pulses 1 day a week for ten weeks so to help I've put together my collection of pulse recipes, 30 in total. 

Adzuki Bean and Beluga Lentil Chilli              Adzuki Bean and Beluga Lentil Curry

Adzuki Bean and Beluga Lentil Dal Makhini     Adzuki Bean and Sweetcorn Chilli

Adzuki Bean Stuffed Mushrooms                    Aubergine and Butter Bean Rolls

Aubergine & Cannellini Bean Cassoulet         Bean & Cauliflower Mash

Bean Dhal                                                        Bean Potato Cake

Black Bean & Spinach Chilli                            Black Bean Fajitas

Borlotti Bean Hash                                                Butternut Squash & Lentil Curry

Cabbage Rolls                                                 Chickpea & Lentil Tacos

Chickpea Oatcake                                           Chilli Non Carne

Courgette & Lentil Roast                             Falafels

Five Bean Tacos                                             Hodmedod Chilli

Houmous                                                         Kale & Lentil Roast

Leek, Kale & Butterbean Soup                       Lentil Stuffed Mushrooms

Mediterranean Chickpea Spread                    Mung Bean Freekeh Pilaf

Refried Back Badger Peas                             Three Lentil Soup

I hope you enjoy some of the above dishes during the International Year of Pulses

Jasmine x