Fresh Green Peas, Butter Beans Flood Chennai Markets

Fresh green peas from Jabalpur, butter beans from Kodaikanal, and double
beans from Kolar have reached the Koyambedu wholesale market in large numbers.
This shows that the winter harvest has begun. These fresh vegetables are now
being used in Chennai homes to prepare warm winter dishes such as pea soup,
matar paneer, and simple bean salads.

Although frozen peas are available throughout the year, winter is the season
for fresh ones. At the wholesale market, green peas cost between
₹40 and ₹50 per kg, depending on the type and quality. Double beans from
Kolar, Krishnagiri, and Andhra Pradesh sell for ₹50-60 per kg, while butter
beans from Kodaikanal cost around ₹100 per kg. Vendors say these prices are
at least 20% lower than frozen varieties.
Ram Mohan S, head of NRC Agro at Koyambedu, said, “Fresh peas are good this year.
Farmers in Jabalpur expect a good harvest until February, so prices may go
down further.”

In retail stores, peas are sold at ₹80-100 per kg, and double beans can cost
up to ₹150.
Double beans and butter beans last longer.”

Vendors explain that legumes reach the market within three to four days
of harvest, but peas take about a week to 10 days to travel from Madhya Pradesh.