Kidney beans takes their name from its dark red skin and shape which resembles a kidney and are available throughout the year in fresh or prepackaged form.
The way kidney beans are able to absorb the flavours of seasonings and the natural flavours of other foods with which they are cooked makes them great for simmered dishes.

Kidney bean (aka common beans) is a highly nutritious variety of herbaceous plant that is very popular in countries like India, China, Brazil and America.

In fact, the plant is considered as one of the major foundations of Native American agriculture and forms an important part of the cultural cuisine of the country.

Today, these edible beans are available in both dried and canned form and are associated with the prevention of a number of ailments and diseases. They are particularly known for their beneficial effects on the cardio-vascular system and digestive system.

Kidney beans are an inexpensive food that can be used in a variety of different dishes. They can be purchased dry or canned and used in soups, stews, salads or eaten alone as a side dish. As with all dried beans, they should be sorted and washed before cooking. Soaking ahead of time reduces cooking time.

Nutrient Content

Kidney beans are also rich in protein, molybdenum (an integral component of the enzyme sulfite oxidase - responsible for detoxifying sulfites), folate, magnesium, iron, Vitamin B1 and manganese.

Health Benefits

• A high source of certain nutrients involved in the process of detoxification, kidney beans reduce the risk of a number of inflammatory, degenerative and cardiovascular diseases and also help promote and maintain optimal health.
• As these beans prove to be a high source of iron, their regular intake helps in the process of respiration at the cellular level, by synthesizing hemoglobin to aid in the carriage of oxygen to the cells.
• Kidney beans also have considerable amount of the mineral molybdenum, which helps in the detoxification of sulfites from the blood.
• One serving of kidney beans has about 16% of the protein needed for a 2,000 calorie diet. Protein helps keep the blood sugar levels regulated, which prevents overeating.
• Kidney beans have low levels of salt and sugar, which is good for maintaining a healthy weight and normal blood pressure level.
• Kidney beans are a low-fat food. Low-fat foods keep the heart healthy and help to maintain a healthy weight.
• Well cooked kidney beans when eaten with whole grains forms a complete dietary fiber-protein rich and fat free diet.
• Women who took 2-3 serving of kidney beans and lentils per week reduced the instance of breast cancer by as high as 24%.
• People who consume kidney beans on daily basis are availing of the richness of the antioxidants contained therein helping them trim down chances of cancer and diabetes.

Red Kidney Bean Recipe

Red Kidney Bean Salad Recipe

Ingredients