Pulses

There are thousands of plants whose seed pods split open down both seams when ripe, and it is these seed pods that are known as legumes. Some are eaten fresh, such as green beans and peas, but most are eaten when dried, such as lentils and split peas, and these are referred to as pulses. Pulses are an important source of protein and are a staple food in many countries where little or no meat is eaten.