French Beans

DESCRIPTION

French beans belong to the Phaseolus vulgaris family of beans and legumes. This variety of green bean is long, thin, tender, with small seeds and a sweet, crisp flavour and intense green flavour.

ORIGIN

Its origin is in Central and South America and it is not until the late 19Th century when is introduced in Europe by the spanish and portuguese. It was cultivated in the Mesoamerican and Southern Andes regions.

CULTURE

One of the components of the Native North American agricultural tradition known as The Three Sisters (along with maize and squash), these beans have a long history of cultural relevance that has spread world wide. Anyone who has come to appreciate this delicious vegetable cannot miss experiencing the Green Bean Festival held annually in the town of Blairsville in Northern Georgia. The main objective of which is to promote a “green” lifestyle, boost tourism in the area and pass down the agricultural knowledge to the new generations of visitors.

NUTRITIONAL VALUE

17 calories for every 100 grams.
Contains a variety of vitamins (A, C, D & E), which help to boost the immune system. They are high in dietary fiber that helps lower cholesterol and they are high in iron. Specialists have also recommended consuming French beans to help avoid migraine pain.

GASTRONOMY

They can be consumed raw, steamed or cooked. Perfect for use in salads, sautéed with other vegetables or preserved. French beans can be combined with pumpkins, eggplant, tomatoes, fresh herbs, citrus, dried fruits, currants and soft cheeses. It is no surprise that French beans are a common sight in kitchens all around the world.