How to Cook Some Popular Beans

Beans
Photo by Süheyl Burak on Unsplash

Whether you are plant-based or love Mexican cuisine, beans are a staple in many homes, and there are so many different types and ways to cook them. Beans are full of health benefits, they are rich in fiber and B vitamins and are considered a source of protein.

You can buy dry beans that you soak overnight and then cook them yourself or canned beans, which are a time saver but sometimes lack flavor. Here’s how you cook three of the most popular types of beans.

Black Eyed Peas

Black-eyed peas are not just the name of a band, they are in fact southern staples that have an earthy flavor to complement salty foods. They are good for pregnant women as they have a high amount of folate in them. To cook them you can simmer them in chicken broth and whatever seasonings you love and add some steamed collard greens, this is a great side for any meal.

Chickpeas

Chickpeas are mostly known as the base of hummus but they are actually a fabulous addition to a salad, or as an alternative to croutons. Drizzle them with olive oil and spices and roast them in an oven for 20-30mins and they are ready to eat.

Edamame

Edamame beans are often eaten at Japanese restaurants with lots of salt and lemon juice. They are young soybeans eaten straight from the pod and are truly so simple to make. They can be boiled, steamed, microwaved, baked, or pan-seared and put in salads for more protein.