These rather whimsical looking beans (legumes) are Chinese red noodle (or “long”) beans. They typically grow to 18-24″ in length, and contain a high amount of protein and fiber of course, as well as potassium and vitamins A and C. They’re also high in the minerals calcium, magnesium and iron.

Red noodle beans are a part of the same botanical family as long, green noodle beans, with variances in color. The botanical family all have the same nutrients, and when compared to the typical green beans most people are familiar with, they are much more nutrient dense in the compounds mentioned above!

These beans can be prepared just like you would with typical green beans: in a stir fry, soups, steamed, salads, and so forth. I love eating them raw! As you may know, legumes are a good addition to a healthy diet, but overall, these varieties are a nice change of pace! If they are not available at your local grocery/health food store, you can order the seeds online and grow them yourself, if feasible.

The ones pictured below were grown by a neighbor, but I plan on growing my own soon!