Chickling vetch is ivory in colour with an irregular shape and very thick skin.
They are found only in the dried form and must be soaked in water for a long time before being cooked and eaten.
When raw they have the same odour as peas and they taste like a mixture of broad beans and peas.
Chickling vetch is characterised by its high iron content and was considered one of the main foods for anyone who had to face a hard day’s work.

It can be enjoyed in soups, creamy soups, salads.