Cowpea seeds, also known as black-eyed peas, are the seeds of the Vigna unguiculata plant, a versatile legume grown for its edible seeds, leaves, and pods. The seeds are highly nutritious, rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, with a mild, creamy, and slightly nutty flavor. They come in various colors and patterns, including wrinkled, smooth, speckled, and solid, and have a characteristic "eye" which can be various colors, like purple.