Soybean
Soybean, scientifically known as Glycine max, is a species of legume native to East Asia but widely cultivated for its edible bean, which has numerous uses. It is a major source of protein and oil, making it a vital crop for both human consumption and animal feed.
- Food Products: Soybeans are processed into tofu, soy milk, soy flour, soy sauce, and tempeh.
- Oil Extraction: Soybean oil is one of the most consumed vegetable oils worldwide.
- Animal Feed: The leftover soybean meal after oil extraction is used as a high-protein feed for livestock.
- Industrial Uses: Soybeans are used in biodiesel production, plastics, and adhesives.
Garbanzo Beans (Chole Or Kabuli Chana)
Garbanzo beans, also known as Chickpeas, are a type of legume which are spherical and beige in color, and are the most widely consumed in many parts of the world. They offer a number of health advantages and are incredibly high in protein and fiber. You really need to have these in your pantry.
You can use them in the well-known Indian dish, chole bhature. In addition, you may add it to salads, burgers, wraps, soups, etc.
Black Chickpeas (Kala Chana)
Black Chickpeas are quite similar to traditional garbanzo beans, except they are smaller and can range in color from dark brown to black. It goes by several names, including Bengal gram, kala chana, and desi chana. They have a nutty taste and a firm texture, making them adaptable. You may sprout these as well.
Dried Green Chickpeas (Hara Chana)
Dried green chickpeas, also known as "hara chana," are a type of chickpea (legume) that is harvested before it starts to dry in their pods. Hara chana is the dried version of green chickpeas.
Fresh Green Chickpeas are quite popular throughout the winter in India because of their excellent nutritional value. It belongs to the "Fabaceae" family and has a similar look to black (kala) chana. They are a good source of protein, iron, and folic acid.
Black-Eyed Peas / Cowpea (Lobia/Chawli/ Raungi)
Black-eyed peas, also known as cowpeas, lobia, chawli, or raungi. It is popular in the Southern United States and in India. They are beige-colored beans with a prominent black spot, hence they got their name.Black-eyed peas are one of the most nutrient-dense beans and the ideal food to eat in the morning since it is high in protein and low in fat and calories. They have a creamy texture and delicate flavor and are often used in curries, stews, salads, and rice dishes.
Adzuki Beans
Adzuki Beans are known by various names, including azuki beans, aduki beans, red beans, red mung beans, and chori. They are small, reddish-brown oval-shaped beans commonly used in Japanese, Chinese, and Korean cuisines. While red ones are extensively utilized, there are also white, black, and gray varieties.
They have a slightly sweet, nutty flavor and creamy texture. They are used in sweet and savory recipes like porridge, mochi, soups, and stir-fries. In India, it's used in dishes like curries, dal, and stir-fries.
Turkish/Dew Gram Beans (Moth or Matki)
Turkish beans, also known as Moth dal, matki, or dew beans, are drought-resistant legumes. These are also available split and de-skinned. They have a crunchy texture and sweet-nutty flavor.
Moth bean is well recognized as a nutrient-dense food that is high in protein, fiber, and zinc and can aid in stress reduction, bowel control, and weight loss. They can also be sprouted and consumed. Moth dal is used in preparing various Indian dishes such as Moth Kachori, Misal Pav, Usal, Moth Curry, salads, and more.