Beans are a popular and affordable staple in many households due to their delicious taste, nutritional value, and long shelf life. They are a versatile food source that can be grown and stored easily, and nearly every culture has cultivated them in some capacity, resulting in a wide variety of regional recipes. Worldwide, for example, there are over 400 types of beans available in the market, making it challenging for home cooks to choose the right ones for their daily needs. To help you navigate this vast selection, let’s take a brief overview of beans and suggest the best types to choose for your specific cooking requirements.
What are Beans?
Beans are a type of legume that is commonly consumed around the world. They are a rich source of protein, dietary fibre, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to a balanced diet. Beans are a staple food in many cultures, and they are often used as a vegetarian or vegan substitute for meat due to their high protein content. They are also an important crop for farmers worldwide and are grown in many different climates and regions. There are different types of beans that are bought in use all over the world, namely, black beans, kidney beans, navy beans, pinto beans, chickpeas, etc. They can be eaten in multiple ways, including boiled, baked, fried, mashed, and even ground into flour for cooking and baking.
15 Different Types of Beans in India
India is home to a diverse range of beans, which are an essential part of its culinary heritage. They are highly beneficial for general health; these tiny-looking superfoods are loaded with fibre and vitamin B content, which assists in reducing cholesterol and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. Here are 15 different types of beans in India. Add them to your general diet to upgrade your health.
1. Kidney Beans
Kidney beans is a famous beans type in India. These are red from the outside and white from the inside. They have a great taste, and adding them to a chilly dish elevates their flavor. These beans have a high amount of antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids that are great for the body’s overall health.
Needless to say, kidney beans are high in fiber and protein, and studies have shown that they might help reduce the risk of cancer. Many health-conscious and vegetarian people love kidney beans.
Nutritional Value –
The nutritional value is based on 100g of raw kidney beans.
- Calories – 333
- Fat- 0.8g
- Cholesterol – 0mg
- Total carbohydrate – 60g
- Protein – 24g
Also Read : Different Types of Cereals
2. Black Beans
Black beans are the king of all beans types because they are a powerhouse of nutrients. They contain essential minerals like zinc, iron, calcium, and a rich source of fiber and protein. It can make your bones strong and also improve your digestion. Black beans are a staple in many South American countries and have a mild but distinct flavor. The texture of cooked black beans is to die for, and the best part is that you can create many exciting recipes with it!
3. Cranberry Beans
Cranberry beans are also known as borlotti beans in some parts of the world. As the name suggests, it comes from cranberries and has a rich and creamy texture. These beans also have an earthy flavor and are used in many continental dishes and salads. People also like using cranberry beans in Italian dish preparations for an extra punch of flavor.
4. Chickpeas
Chickpeas are most commonly known as Kabuli chana and are among the most readily available types of beans in India. They are so popular worldwide because they are the star ingredient of a very famous dish called hummus. Chickpeas have a great texture and make many delicious recipes. They are a very versatile food and are pretty easy to cook with.
5. Lima Beans
Lima beans are also known as butter beans in many parts of the world. Consumption of these beans is often associated with gas-related issues, and hence it is advised that one should wash the beans thoroughly before using them. They are not ideal to be consumed in a raw form. The lima beans can be of two types- one larger and one small lima bean. These beans have a great texture and a buttery taste. They can be an excellent ingredient for soup and salad recipes!
6. Soybeans
How can we forget Soybeans in our names of beans list? Soybeans are very beneficial to health and also light on the pocket. These reasons make it a trendy choice amongst health-conscious people. Another impressive fact about these beans is that they are high in protein and hence an excellent option for vegetarians to get some protein in their diet. It is readily available in the market and makes a great side dish with rice.
Also Read : Different Types of Rice
7. Navy Beans
Navy beans are cost-effective and a great source of fiber. They are relatively smaller in size but have a high amount of nutrients. These beans have a mild flavor and are also effective for people with diabetes and increased cholesterol. It is especially beneficial for women in their period having an iron deficiency as the beans have high iron content.
The navy beans are also known as white pea beans and Boston beans in some parts of the U.S. Their creamy texture resembles the texture of Great Northern Beans, and they are most likely to be used for preparing English breakfast like baked beans.
8. Edamame
We can’t miss out on Edamame when talking about a healthy types of green beans. Edamame is soybeans that are still inside the pod. They are consumed when the beans are young and soft. When soybeans mature, they become hard and cannot be eaten without cooking them thoroughly. Edamame is used in many snack and salad recipes, and they make a tasty salad topping too! You can buy either fresh or frozen edamame and then cook them to perfection.
9. Cannellini Beans
Cannellini beans are white and large and therefore also known as white kidney beans. The beans are used primarily in Italian and continental cooking to make soups, stews, and side dishes. The texture of Cannellini beans is to die for, and they have a great taste too! The cherry on the top about these beans is that they are filled with nutrients and also fat-free. It’s very easy to find Cannellini beans in your nearest grocery store and local food shops.
10. Fava Beans
Coming to fava beans, they are consumed mainly by the rich or used by chefs in preparing fancy recipes. These beans are expensive and also high maintenance. Moreover, it takes a long time to cook these beans and have a nutty flavor to them. What’s good about the beans is that it is packed with fiber and vitamins, making it a very healthy treat! They make a great dip and also spread to have your dishes with!
11. Pinto Beans
Pinto beans look beautiful from the outside! They have a pinkish color, and it almost looks like it is painted with specks. They have a smooth texture and contain an impressive amount of protein and fiber. Pinto beans are widely used in making Mexican burrito, which is a very popular dish. Pinto beans are low calorie and have fewer amounts of fats, making it diet-friendly and healthy!
12. Black-Eyed Peas
The most versatile variety of bean has to be Black-eyed peas. Black-eyed peas are a hit with smoky chicken and lamb and also alongside a salad. The beans are juicy and have a great texture and flavor. Many health experts recommend these beans to pregnant women as they are a powerhouse of folate, an essential nutrient required by pregnant women. The perfect way to have these beans is with a chicken salad and some seasonings.
Also Read : Different Types of Millets
13. Lentils
Lentils are a commonly found food and are very easy to prepare and cook with. They are of different colors and can vary in shape and size. What’s interesting is that lentils are loaded with nutrients and essential antioxidants. Lentils are also protein-rich and can be added to many traditional and international cuisines. It is one of the most popular types of beans in India and can be found in almost every other household.
14. Red Beans
Red beans are small and round and red in color. People often confuse red beans with kidney beans because of their appearance. The best part is that you can make many sweet and sour recipes with red beans. What’s important to remember is that red beans should be fully cooked before consumption and should not be consumed raw. Red beans are easily available and are one of the most popular pulses online.
15. Mung Beans
Mung beans are a plant-based protein and also a widespread varieties of beans. The texture of moong dal beans is starch-like, and they have a mild flavor. Mung beans are an excellent source of antioxidants and come in various forms. Recipes cooked with mung beans are very filling and keeps you satisfied for a long time. They are healthy, tasty, and diet-friendly too.
Now that you are informed about all types of beans list, you can choose from what you most like. All of these beans are healthy and have a delicious taste. You can make many sides and main dishes using beans and eat without thinking about your health and counting calories. So, choose your favorite from this list of beans and get cooking a fabulous recipe.
FAQs
The beans that are used to make baked beans are navy beans, pinto beans, black beans and cannellini beans. You may use any of these beans to cook a delicious baked beans dish.
Beans are a great source of protein and fiber and it also helps you maintain a healthy digestive system. You can have beans daily without any hesitation. It is one of the best source of plant based protein! The only key here is to have it moderation.
Beans is not a high carb food. They have a healthy amount of carbs that you can include in your diet but it is not an ideal option if you’re looking for a high carb food.
Beans have a great antioxidant content and soluble fiber that can help you in managing weight and also to loose belly fat.
Yes beans are a great superfood because they contain an ideal mix of every nutrient that is required by the human body to grow.
Thank you so much for such a lovely article with informative content. Reading your article made me realize the benefits of beans to Add to our diet. Hope to see more of a similar article.