With the drop in temperatures and the return of the stewsLegumes are once again taking center stage at many tables. Besides their culinary appeal, their cultivation and production are also gaining popularity. industry linked to these grains It is progressing in several Spanish regions, opening a window of opportunity that is also favored by growing interest in Europe.
In this context, Castilla-La Mancha stands out, adding a strong productive boost while national consumption hovers around 3,5 kg per capitaIn addition, there is progress on a new PGI for the lentils of La Manchuela, support for the modernization of industries and some practical cooking tips to get the most out of chickpeas, lentils and company.
Boosting cultivation in Castilla-La Mancha
Castilla-La Mancha has approximately 170.000 hectares of legumes Declared under the CAP, approximately 30% of the national total. The expansion is concentrated in two production hubs, The Sagra region of Toledo and the Manchuela region of Cuencawhere lentils and chickpeas maintain a great tradition and, along with other communities such as Castilla y León reinforces its leadership in quality legumes.
The surface area has grown a 45,5% from 2022 Following the implementation of aid linked to plant proteins, this development strengthens a crop well adapted to the environment, with agronomic and nutritional interest, and with potential to gain ground in more sustainable rotations.
Consumption and habits in Spain
The general recommendation is to take two or more weekly servings (nutritional propertiesIn Spain, average consumption is around 3,5 kg per person per year, in a context where the traditional dishes such as stews, soups and lentils take center stage in autumn and winter.
The OCU reminds us that legumes provide iron, zinc, protein and fibera profile that contributes to a balanced diet. In terms of supply, Spain produces around 470.000 tons annual crops of legumes and imports around 400.000, which suggests room to consolidate the national supply.
Industry, quality and PGI in La Manchuela
The creation of a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) for the lentils of La Manchuela, which includes 31 municipalities from Cuenca and Albacete. The specifications are currently with the Ministry of Agriculture and, after review, must be submitted to EU for your assessment.
The region has 38 industries of pulses and protein crops, supported by FOCAL modernization aid. Since 2015, the following have been approved ten projects with two million euros in aid and the latest call adds four projects in evaluation.
Cooking tips: common mistakes and tricks
One of the most common mistakes with chickpeas is adding salt during soakingAvoiding it in those first few hours helps prevent the skin from peeling or becoming tough, improving the final texture of the dish.
A useful trick is to use half a teaspoon of baking soda in the soak to soften the skin and facilitate hydration. Also, incorporate basic vegetables And, if desired, a little day-old bread can add body to the broth and make a more well-rounded stew.
European overview and opportunities
Changing habits in Europe are driving up legume consumption. Projections from international organizations point to an increase from 7 to 8,6 kg per capita on a global scale towards the next decade, with world trade growing from 15 to 22 billion tons.
Global production could be close to 104 billion tons in the medium term, with India as a major producer, and countries like Canada, Myanmar, China, and Russia among the main players. For Spain and the EU, this surge in demand means more chances for origin and transformation with added value.
Tradition and diversity: grass peas and local dishes
Beyond lentils or chickpeas, the cultivation of [other crops] survives in Castilla-La Mancha grass peas, a legume closely linked to regional cuisine. This year they total nearly 500 hectares in the CAP and are the base ingredient of some gruel with strong popular roots.
Between differentiated quality, industrial modernization With good cooking habits, legumes are consolidating their role in the diet and in agriculture. The increase in cultivated area, the processing of the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) in La Manchuela, and European interest paint a promising picture. favorable for producing and consuming more and better.
