👉 Cowpeas are a type of leguminous plant that is native to the Indian subcontinent and includes two varieties, the millet cowpea (C. malus) and the maize cowpea (C. calyptiformis). They are also known as "cow peas" or "maize peas". Cowpeas have a crunchy outer skin that can be used in a variety of dishes including salads, soups, stews, and curries.