Pronunciation: [ɡɹˈɒk] (IPA) 
The word "groch" is spelled with the Polish letter "ch" which is pronounced as a voiceless velar fricative sound /x/. This sound is made by positioning the back of the tongue near the soft palate while air is forced out from the throat. The letter "g" in Polish is pronounced as a voiced velar plosive /ɡ/. "Groch" is the Polish word for "peas" and is commonly used in various cuisines around the world.
Groch is a noun that refers to a leguminous plant, scientifically known as Vicia faba, commonly known as broad bean or fava bean. Originating from the Mediterranean region, groch is cultivated in various parts of the world for its edible seeds.
The plant itself grows as an annual herb, usually reaching a height of up to three feet, with broad leaves and white or purplish flowers. The pods produced by groch are elongated and contain several seeds inside. These seeds, which are roughly the size of a kidney bean, have a distinctive creamy color with a firm texture.
Culturally, groch has a long history of consumption, with evidence of cultivation dating back to ancient times. It is often used in cooking as a nutritious and versatile ingredient, offering a mild and nutty flavor. The seeds can be consumed fresh or dried, and are commonly utilized in a variety of dishes, such as soups, stews, salads, and even as a standalone side dish. Groch seeds are also processed to produce flour, enabling their use in baking applications.
From a nutritional standpoint, groch is valued for its high protein and fiber content, as well as various essential nutrients such as vitamins (particularly folate and vitamin B6), minerals (such as iron, magnesium, and potassium), and antioxidants. It is often regarded as a valuable plant-based protein source and is used as a meat substitute in some vegetarian and vegan diets.
Overall, groch is a versatile leguminous plant with edible seeds that offer both culinary and nutritional benefits.
The word "groch" comes from the Polish language. It is derived from the Old Polish word "gruch" which means "pea". This word ultimately originated from the Proto-Slavic *grьcъ, which also referred to the pea plant. The etymology traces back to the Proto-Indo-European root *greuh₂-, which meant "to droop or bend". Over time, the word "groch" has maintained its original meaning of pea in the Polish language.
