Red ground beans
Red broad beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) are a nutritious and versatile legume known for its health benefits. These beans are excellent sources of vegetable protein, making them a valuable addition to plant and vegan diets. In addition to protein, beans are rich in fibre, which improves digestion, promotes a feeling of fullness and helps stabilise blood sugar levels. In addition, beans are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including folic acid, manganese, potassium and iron. Folic acid is particularly important for pregnant women because it supports fetal development. High potassium levels help maintain healthy blood pressure levels, while iron promotes red blood cell production. Red beans are also excellent sources of antioxidants such as anthocyanins and quercetin. Antioxidants help protect cells from oxidative stress and inflammation.
Beans are incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide range of dishes, including soups, stews, burgers, salads and sauces. They can also be pureed and seasoned to make a delicious oatmeal or filling for tacos and burritos.
Their rich flavour and nutritional value make beans a great choice for those looking to add more plant protein and fibre to their diet.
To prepare the beans, soak them overnight or for at least 8 hours. This process not only shortens the cooking time, but also helps remove naturally occurring compounds from the beans that can cause indigestion.
After soaking, rinse the beans well and drain off the soaking water. Then place the beans in a large pot, cover with fresh water and bring to the boil. Then lower the heat and simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour or until the beans are soft.
The flavour of the beans can be enhanced by sautéing onions, garlic and your choice of spices, such as ground coriander, ground cumin, garam masala or herbs, in a separate pan. Once the beans are cooked, add the spice mixture to the pot and simmer for another 10-15 minutes to allow the flavours to blend.
NB! The information provided here should not be interpreted as a recommendation for treatment or other types of health problems. We recommend that you make personal health decisions after evaluating various sources of information.