Chickpeas are great in burgers. Photo / Carolyn Robertson
Chickpeas are great in burgers. Photo / Carolyn Robertson
The United Nations has officially declared 2016 the year of the bean. In 2013, the elected food was quinoa, which clearly enjoyed its time in the sun; so if the UN's endorsement is any indication, we are all going to be eating a lot more beans in the future.
Thebean, or rather the "pulse", includes all dried beans, legumes such as dried peas and lentils, chickpeas, and all seeds that are grown in a pod.
They provide more protein than any other plant. They also deliver calcium for bones, magnesium for the heart, potassium for muscle health, and more iron than meat.
Beans are also filling and aid digestion because of all the fibre.
Unfortunately, the image of a bean seldom drums up enthusiasm - especially among kids. So here are some ideas for making beans and legumes appealing to the little ones:
Studies show that diets that include beans and legumes help people lose weight. Bean consumption also correlates to increased overall nutrition.
So buy and eat more beans this year, first because they are good for your health and waistline and second because the UN believes your purchase will support the grander goal of international food security and sustainable nutrition. The bean suddenly doesn't sound so boring anymore.