Leguminous vegetables, such as peas, beans, lentils, soybeans, peanuts, chickpeas, and kidney beans, are unique in that they contain seed-bearing pods. These pods are not only a valuable source of protein, but when freshly harvested, they also provide vitamins A and C. In areas where animal protein is limited, dried legumes (or “pulses”) play an especially vital role in diets. Additionally, they are an essential component of vegetarian diets, providing a significant source of protein.