Legumes

Beans

Phaseolus spp.

Black, kidney, pinto, cannellini — the global protein staple.

Protein
21g
Calories
333
Fibre
15g
Amino profile
Incomplete

Macros are per 100g of the cooked ingredient (e.g. oats, quinoa, lentils and other pantry staples that require cooking). Nutritional values are estimated using recognised nutrition databases and calorie-tracking software to provide a practical guide, although they may vary depending on the exact ingredients and brands you use.

Origin

Central & South America, ~7000 BCE

Culinary uses

  • · Stews & chilis
  • · Refried
  • · Salads
  • · Bean burgers

Cooking guide

Soak 8h; simmer 60–90 min. Add salt at the end.

Storage

Dry beans: airtight jar, cool cupboard. Older beans never soften — buy fresh.

Buying guide

Buy from high-turnover stores — old beans never soften.

Health benefits

  • Molybdenum
  • Folate
  • Cholesterol-lowering fibre

Common varieties

KidneyBlackCannelliniPintoBorlottiMungAdzuki

Related ingredients

Recipes using beans