French Beans: Discover the Surprising Benefits

As the name suggests, I’ve always wondered if French beans are from France! Here’s the scoop: French beans are not exclusive to France. Despite their name, they’re not like the Eiffel Tower or berets, deeply rooted in French culture.

You see, the phrase “French beans” refers to a particular variety of green beans that are tall, slender, and oh-so-elegant. They’re often called haricot verts, a fancy French term meaning “green beans.”

And there you have it—the French connection! Though these delicate, vibrant veggies are a staple of French cuisine, they are versatile ingredients that can add finesse to any dish.

So, whether you’re a seasoned food enthusiast or a curious culinary adventurer, get ready to discover the wonders of French beans.

About French Beans

French beans are part of the legume family, but what distinguishes them is their slim form, delicate texture, and delightfully crunchy bite. When cooked to perfection, they keep their beautiful green colour, making them a feast for the eyes and the taste senses.

The beans are often hand-harvested from plants and picked early to achieve a soft texture and a rich flavour. Depending on the variety, the pods also come in cream, dark green and purple shades.

Each pod has numerous tiny seeds that are securely enclosed in the centre and extend the length of the pod beneath the surface. The seeds have a vivid green colour and a delicate, semi-starchy texture.

French beans are sweet, vegetal, faintly earthy, and have hints of light grassy aroma.

French beans are a culinary delight and a powerhouse of nutrients, and being low in calories, they are a fantastic choice for a healthy, nutritious diet. The elegant beans are the ideal pantry ingredient to add a pop of colour, boost flavour, or test out new culinary techniques.

Get ready to appreciate these beans’ grace, versatility, and nutrient-rich goodness as you scroll down to learn more about the world of these beautiful beans.

Nutritional Profile of French Beans

Did you know French Beans have been enjoyed for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilisations? Their popularity hasn’t dwindled since and remains a staple in many households worldwide.

The primary reason is its nutrient content since these little guys are packed with nutritional goodness, including vitamins A, C, and K, fibre, and folate.

To make it precise, 100 grams of French beans have the following nutrients ^[1]:

French Beans for Gut Health and Digestive System

Ah, gut health- an important topic indeed! And guess what? French beans can be a fabulous addition to your gut-friendly arsenal. These slender green wonders pack quite a punch to support a healthy digestive system. Let’s dive into why French beans are great for gut health.

First off, beans are a fantastic source of dietary fibre. Fibre is like a superhero for your gut. It helps regulate digestion, promotes healthy bowel movements, and keeps things running smoothly. Including French beans in your diet can increase fibre intake and give your gut some much-needed love ^[2].

Further, another reason French beans are gut-friendly is their high water content. Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system; these beans help you do that. The water content in French beans aids in softening stool and preventing constipation, keeping your gut happy and your bathroom visits stress-free.

One more perk of beans is their potential prebiotic properties. Prebiotics serve as fuel for the beneficial bacteria residing in your gut. These bacteria are crucial in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome for proper digestion and overall well-being.

Remember, a healthy gut means a happy you! So, whether you’re enjoying beans in a crunchy salad, a flavorful stir-fry, or any other delicious creation, know that you’re doing your gut a favour. Embrace the gut-loving power of French beans and keep your digestive system in tip-top shape. Your tummy will thank you!

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Other Health Benefits of French Beans

French beans are not only a delicious delight but also a terrific source of critical nutrients that give fantastic health benefits.

Here we will discuss some health benefits that you reap from this wonder veggie:

#1 French Beans Promote Weight Loss

The green beans can be your best pal in your weight loss journey! You might wonder how?

As they are low in calories and packed with essential nutrients, these slender beans are an excellent option for anyone trying to lose weight, especially those with diabetes ^[3].

They are a great source of nutritional fibre, easily absorbed by the digestive system, and help with weight loss by giving a feeling of fullness for a longer time and reducing cravings.

#2 French Beans Radiate Skin

You always want to look great, and your skin represents you, so taking good care of it is essential. Having a balanced diet will surely help you to make your skin rejuvenate.

French beans naturally include vitamins C and A and the antioxidant-rich minerals zinc and copper. Eating cooked beans promote blood flow to the skin tissues, nourishing the cells and soothing the skin, leaving it clear, soft, and well-hydrated.

#3 French Beans Boosts Energy

You frequently feel worn out and unwilling to work harder, which may make for an unpleasant day. Therefore, you need an energy booster, which means getting enough iron.

When compared to spinach, green beans provide roughly twice as much iron. Iron is a component of red blood cells essential to transport oxygen from the lungs to cells throughout the body.

Green beans are the miracle food you need if you have trouble with low iron and dripping energy, as they provide you with iron that boosts the energy level in your body ^[4].

#4 French Beans Regulate Sugar Levels

The glycemic index in French beans is low. They do not raise blood glucose levels and stabilise blood sugar while supplying nutrients, minerals, and energy when consumed.

For this reason, it is one of the healthiest vegetables for those with diabetes. Green beans’ dietary fibre also aids in controlling blood sugar. This is because digestive fibres slow down the breakdown and absorption of carbs.

As a result, it aids in maintaining blood sugar stability for extended periods ^[5].

#5 French Beans Detoxifies Body

French beans adds bulk to the stool that helps to remove waste and toxins from the body. It increases the body’s fluid secretion, quickly eliminating accumulated toxins while ensuring its interior organs are correctly hydrated.

#6 French Beans Aid Hair Growth

French beans are packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamins B5 and C, that stimulate blood flow in the scalp, halting hair loss and encouraging rapid growth.

The high carotene concentration in beans can help you prevent further hair loss and strengthens and smoothes existing hair. You can always look for ways to add these green beans to your diet for the shiny, lustrous crown.

#7 French Beans Strengthen Bones

It is abundant in vitamin K and the “big three” bone-strengthening minerals, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which increase bone mass and improve joint mobility ^[6].

How to Choose and Store Green Beans

• Inspect the colour. It would be best if you look for beans that are vivid green in color. A yellowish or brownish colour could indicate spoilt ness. Verify the expiration date before purchasing any canned beans.
• Examine the surface. The pod’s skin needs to be smooth and well-knit. You can push the skin aside to check if it contains folds or wrinkles.
• Check that they snap. The pod must snap if it is firm. Please wait until you hear the pod shatter before bending it. This also indicates that the beans are ripe.
• Verify the size. Pods that are too big or too thick are strongly discouraged. They might not taste like fresh beans. Choose the medium-sized ones.

Storage and Food Safety

You can store green beans in the refrigerator in a plastic bag or resealable container, and they can remain fresh for up to a week. Do not wash or trim them until ready to use because cutting the beans can speed up spoilage.

To freeze these tall beans, boil them gently, then wipe them dry. Place on a sheet pan and freeze in a single layer before putting in an airtight plastic bag.

Green beans may remain fresh for three to six months when stored correctly in the freezer.

Ways to Consume Green Beans

There are countless options available when it comes to preparing beans. You can boil them for an appealing yet brittle texture, sauté them with garlic and olive oil for an explosive flavour, or even roast them to achieve great caramelised taste buds.

Because of their adaptability, there are endless ways to enjoy them, allowing you to get creative in the kitchen and try new things. The best way to get green beans rewards is to consume them frequently.

It’s simple to incorporate them into your diet, and here we are providing you with a few simple recopies to try:

1. Classic Green Beans Salad

Ah, French beans- the versatile legume with deliciousness and nutrition elements. And what better way to enjoy them than in classic salads?

Try garlic, cucumber, radish and  French beans for a burst of flavour – the tangy lemon and nutty parmesan complement the beans perfectly. For a warm salad, pair beans with walnuts and cheese – trust me, the combination is heavenly.

And if you’re in the mood for some protein, top French beans with tuna for a filling meal. These salads prove that beans aren’t just a boring side dish – they’re the show’s star!

2. Sautéed and Stir-Fried French Beans

Let’s sauté and stir-fry some French beans, shall we? Adding a crispy component like a panner takes this dish to another level. Or, try out an almond and garlic version for a nutty flavour.

Honey garlic and sesame soy sauce beans make it feel fancy. Keep experimenting, as the recipe can get simple or as spicy as you like. Always remember to throw in some creativity with each stir fry.

3. Roasted and Grilled Green Beans

For a change of pace, consider roasting or grilling your beans. French beans with cherry tomatoes make an excellent side dish, and you also pair it with grilled chicken or paneer.

Mixing French beans with butternut squash and red onion in a pan is another superb option.

4. Creative French Beans Dips and Spreads

Who knew French beans could be so versatile? Take your dip game to the next level with Beans Hummus, a creamy and nutritious alternative to traditional hummus.

Feeling daring? Try the French Beans and Avocado Dip, a zesty and refreshing take on guacamole. Looking for something with a kick? The Spicy French Beans Pesto packs a punch of flavour.

And for a sweet twist, the French Beans and Walnut Spread is perfect for your morning toast. Dip, spread, and enjoy the endless possibilities of French beans!

5. Wholesome French Beans Mains

French Beans are a side dish or salad item that makes fantastic, wholesome mains. The French Beans and Mushroom Risotto combines the delicate flavours and earthiness of mushrooms with the texture of the French Beans, making for a fulfilling meal.

Another flavourful option is the French Beans Curry with Coconut Milk, where the creaminess of the coconut milk and spice blend superbly with the crunchiness of the French beans.

The French beans and Sweet Potato Stew is a hearty and comforting dish with a pop of sweetness from the sweet potatoes.

Lastly, French Beans and Prawn Linguine is a light pasta dish with a burst of flavour from perfectly cooked prawns and the crunch of French beans.

Who knew one ingredient could give birth to so many delicious meals?

6. French Beans in Baked Goods

Who says French beans can only be a side dish? For a savoury treat, try making French Beans Muffins or a French Beans and Bacon Pie.

If you’re feeling fancy, go for a French Beans Tart. And for a slightly healthier option, whip up some French Beans and Feta Cheese Pastry.

Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this unexpected twist.

Farewell Note

French beans are like the superheroes of the vegetable world. They’re low in calories but high in fibre, helping you feel full and fabulous.

They’re also loaded with vitamins and minerals, giving you a boost of goodness with every bite.

Who knew healthy eating could be this much fun? So, whether you’re a veggie connoisseur or just looking to jazz up your meals, French beans are your go-to ingredient for a funky and flavorful time.

Get ready to shake up your taste buds, break it down in the kitchen, and bring some serious groove to your plate. Let’s get this bean party started!

Frequently Asked Questions