
Varieties
Both dark (red) and light (pink) varieties of kidney beans are available in the United States. The dark red beans are grown in New York, while the lighter varieties are grown in California.
Preparation, uses, and tips
Kidney beans pick up flavors well, making them ideal for marinating or adding to stews. When cooking them with tomatoes or tomato sauce, it is usually better to precook the beans, as otherwise the acids in the tomato may prevent the beans from softening and so require longer cooking time. Soak the dried beans for 12 hours before cooking, then pressure-cook for 20 minutes, or simmer on the stove for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. 1 cup of dried beans makes approximately 3 cups of cooked beans. Use kidney beans to make chili, and add them to stews, soups, and salads, as well as to grain and vegetable dishes.
Nutritional Highlights
Kidney beans (boiled, red), 1 cup (177g)
Calories: 225
Protein: 15.3g
Carbohydrate: 40.4g
Total Fat: 0.88g
Fiber: 11.3g
*Excellent source of: Iron (5.2mg), Magnesium (80mg), and Folate (229 mcg)
*Foods that are an “excellent source” of a particular nutrient provide 20% or more of the Recommended Daily Value. Foods that are a “good source” of a particular nutrient provide between 10 and 20% of the Recommended Daily Value.
Copyright 2007, Healthnotes, Inc., 1505 S.E. Gideon St., Suite 200, Portland, Oregon 97202, www.Healthnotes.com.
2006-09-07

