Descubre los alimentos

Aquí encontrarás toda la información necesaria para conocer todos los productos que ofrecemos en mentta y poder elegir como un auténtico experto.

BEAN

 

What is a bean?

 

The bean is a legume belonging to the Fabaceae (or Leguminosae) family and is one of the staple foods in many cultures around the world. It is an excellent source of plant proteins and is cultivated in a wide variety of colors, sizes, and textures. Depending on the country, it is known as bean, kidney bean, haricot bean, bean, or string bean.

 

Bean properties


Beans are highly nutritious and offer multiple health benefits:

 

  •  Rich in proteins: They are an important source of plant proteins, ideal for vegetarian and vegan diets.
  •  High in fiber: They improve digestion, regulate intestinal transit, and help control blood sugar.
  •  Low in fat: They are heart-healthy and help reduce cholesterol.
  • Source of vitamins and minerals: They contain iron, magnesium, zinc, phosphorus, potassium, and folic acid, essential for the body.
  • Sustained energy: Their combination of complex carbohydrates and proteins makes them ideal for maintaining energy levels for longer periods.
  • Antioxidant properties: They contain compounds that help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

 

Bean varieties


There are hundreds of bean varieties, some of the most well-known ones are:

  • Black bean: Popular in Latin America and the Caribbean, with an earthy flavor and a smooth texture.
  • Red bean (kidney bean): Widely used in dishes like chili, with a firm texture and a slightly sweet flavor.
  • Pinto bean: Common in Mexico and the United States, with a mild flavor and a creamy texture.
  • White bean (navy bean): Smooth and versatile, ideal for stews and soups.
  • Canary or Peruvian bean: Yellow in color with a delicate flavor, widely consumed in South America.
  • Mung bean: Small and green, used in Asian cuisine and the base for soybean sprouts.
  • Azuki bean: Small and red, used in Japanese cuisine to make sweet paste.
  • Turtle black bean: More dense and firm, ideal for dishes that require a more consistent texture.

 

 


Main bean-producing countries


Beans are cultivated in many parts of the world, being a fundamental food in various cuisines. The main producers are:


 

  • India: A major producer and consumer of beans, especially mung beans and lentils.
  • Mexico: Considered the birthplace of beans, with many local varieties.
  • China: Producer of mung beans and azuki beans.
  • United States: Produces pinto, black, and red beans in large quantities.
  • Brazil: Known for feijoada and the cultivation of carioca beans.
  • Colombia and Peru: Important producers of navy beans and other varieties.
  • Argentina and Bolivia: Producers of white and red beans.


How to consume and prepare it


Beans are very versatile and can be prepared in many ways:


Stewed: Cooked with spices, meats, or vegetables in soups and stews.
In puree or cream: They can be processed to make creams or dips like "refried beans".
In tacos and burritos: In Mexican cuisine, they are an essential ingredient.
In salads: Mixed with fresh vegetables and dressings.
In rice and casseroles: Like in Brazilian feijoada or Costa Rican gallo pinto.
In baking: In Asia, azuki beans are used to make sweet pastes and dessert fillings.
 In beverages: In some cultures, like in Mexico, bean-based beverages are prepared, such as "bean atole".


Contact Customer Service
Follow us!
Our app is better :)
  • Available on Google Play
  • Available on App Store
Subscribe to our newsletter

And get %5 off your first purchase

Our Sections
About mentta
Legal
  • MasterCard SecureCode
  • Verified by VISA
  • Redsýs
  • Up Spain - Cheque Gourmet
  • Pluxee
  • Cobee
  • Secured by RapidSSL
mentta

©  2026 mentta — All rights reserved

Whatsapp