Unlocking the magic of purple green beans in your kitchen
Green beans are often associated with yellow pods, generously drizzled with melted butter and breadcrumbs after cooking. The green variety, and certainly the purple version, receive less appreciation. This is unjust, as they can offer delightful surprises in the kitchen.
Are you seeking a bit of magic while cooking? Purple green beans are perfect for this. They are not only tasty but also healthy. The raw vegetable displays an intense, dark purple colour. While the colour might suggest spoilage, this is not the case as long as it is fresh and hasn’t been stored too long.
Properties of green beans
Purple green beans stand out due to their unusual colour and nutrient richness. These unassuming pods are a great source of vitamins and minerals that support the body on many levels. They contain B vitamins, vitamin C, K, and provitamin A. Thanks to this, regular consumption of purple and green beans can improve immunity, skin health, and metabolic processes. The purple coloration of the beans is due to anthocyanins, which are strong antioxidants. Purple green beans can help combat heart diseases, diabetes, and cancers.
How to cook purple green beans
Similar to yellow and green beans, I usually cut off the tips of the individual pods. Even though they are edible and aligned with the zero-waste idea, when serving dinner to the whole family, I prefer they go to bio-waste. I place the washed beans into boiling water, then reduce the heat afterward and cook for about 25 minutes until they become soft. By then, the purple colour has disappeared. I serve the beans green, with a crispy addition like toasted almond flakes and a small amount of butter.
