Have you Bean There?: Broad Beans

Scientific Name: Vicia faba

Broad Beans or Faba beans originated in the valleys of Asia and in Mediterranean areas. They belong to the Fabaceae family and usually they are grown in gardens, This plant has whitish-pink with some dark purple hue flowers and they can grow up to more than 5 feet. The pods are about 10 cm long, green in color and turns darker when matured. Honeybees are attracted to its flowers because they smell sweet.

Broad Beans are very high in fiber and can prevent colon cancer. They are also rich in Vitamin B1, BC, riboflavin, niacin, protein, iron, copper, manganese, magnesium and calcium. Broad Beans are often used in European countries for dieting and can be a form of laxative because they contain about 65% dietary fiber. So if you are planning to reduce some weight, this beans are for you :)

Like any other beans, Broad beans can be cooked in many ways. You can add them in soups and in main course dishes. They can be combined with mashed potatoes; stuffed in pork rolls or chicken; or grilled.