Do you know that there are bean varieties for different climates and soil types? Beans have been used for centuries as a staple diet, mainly because they are rich in protein. When you consume a lot of this plant-based (protein) food, you can actually enjoy tons of healthy perks. How many types of beans are there? Well, there are plenty of them, really. Each bean comes with its own unique traits, texture, and taste. It’s safe to say that beans can provide a wide array of options and applications, especially concerning your diet.

Common Bean Types

  • Also known as Phaseolus Vulgaris, common beans came from the Americas, with the first domesticated type originating in central Mexico together with squash and corn. Some of the most popular (and common) types are:

  • Asparagus beans. Some areas know it as yardlong. The plants can thrive well in humid and hot climates, such as the ones in the Midwest and Southeast America. The pods are long and slender, like green beans. You can use them for soups, curries, and stir-fries.

  • Lima beans. Also known as butter beans, this type of bean can be grown well in warm climates. It won’t survive in areas where it’s under 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

  • Pole beans. Depending on their types, the plants can grow from 6 feet to 20 feet. They usually need a fence or trellis for support.
    Soy beans. If you like to order edamame at Japanese restaurants, then you are familiar with this young soybean. The mature beans can be turned into soybean paste or tofu.

  • Other Bean Varieties

bean-dishes
There are still more bean varieties for different climates and soil types out there. There are other popular and common beans that would be perfect for different dishes or meals.

  • Black beans, native to Central and South America. The flavor is earthy and mild with meaty and dense texture. That’s why they are often used to substitute meat. You can use them for vegan burgers, dips, salsa, salads, stews, and soups.
  • Pinto beans, which are commonly found in Central and South America. It has an earthy and also nutty flavor with creamy and yet soft texture. It is often used for burritos, chillies, or enchiladas. You can cook them for dips, casseroles, salads, soups, or refried beans.
  • Chickpeas. Also known as the garbanzo beans, they are common ingredients in Spanish, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Indian dishes. They are commonly used for aquafaba and hummus. They have an earthy and nutty taste with a rather grainy but firm texture. You can find them in vegan burgers, stews, salads, curries, and falafel.
  • Kidney beans. They have a similar look to red beans, but the latter is smaller and yet creamier. Kidney beans are commonly used for stews, soups, or chillies, or other dishes that need long simmer time. The texture is meaty and firm with a mild and a bit sweet taste.
  • Mung beans, which are native in Southeast Asia, India, and China. The flavor is sweet and somewhat nutty with a soft texture. They are often used for desserts, like cakes, sweet soups, and puddings. You can also cook them in stews and curries.

Final Words

Having so many different beans can be overwhelming, but if you know which one is your favorite, the rest would be easy. By knowing bean varieties for different climates and soil types, you can finally decide which one to have in your garden.