Beans, Beans, the Magical Fruit...

Saturday, February 6, 2010

 

Beans are one of nature’s healthiest foods – they are naturally low in total fat, contain no
saturated fat or cholesterol, and provide important nutrients such as fiber, protein, calcium, iron,
folic acid and potassium. National and international expert bodies, including the National Research Council, the World Health Organization, the World Cancer Relief Fund, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood
Institute, and the U.S. Surgeon General, have reviewed scientific evidence and concluded that
eating beans can be an important ally in maintaining health and may reduce the risk of heart
disease and certain cancers. Other studies suggest beans are useful in managing diabetes, may cut
risk for high blood pressure and may help in losing weight. The USDA recommends that adults eat more than three cups of beans each week for maximum health benefits – three times more than the current average American consumption. From http://americanbean.org/bean-facts/ 

Beans are a great and inexpensive source of protein. Our family has been eating them a lot more frequently. If you purchase dry beans, they are much cheaper than canned. I used to be intimidated at the thought of soaking beans overnight and then boiling them for hours on the stove. Then one of my friends, said, "Why don't you put them in the crock pot?" Hello! That suggestion has made all of the difference. In the morning, I put beans in the crock pot, cover them with an inch of water, and turn it on high. You can add salt or other seasonings like chili powder if you want. It is soooo easy and we get more fiber and protein in our diet for less money.

What can you do with beans? My husband and I add black beans to hamburger meat, add taco seasoning and use the mixture in tacos, burritos, or taco salads. We even like to make burritos using whole black beans, cheese, salsa verde, and avocado slices. Yum!

If you have a favorite bean recipe, please post it.

 



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