Mung beans: A protein-packed superfood
What's the story
Mung beans are a versatile and nutritious legume that have been a staple in many diets around the world for centuries.
Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, they offer a myriad of health benefits.
This article explores the nutritional value of mung beans, their health benefits, how to incorporate them into your diet, and some tips for cooking them.
Nutrition
Nutritional profile of mung beans
Mung beans are super nutritious.
A one-cup serving of cooked mung beans delivers a whopping 14 grams of protein, making them a vegetarian's best friend.
You'll also get over 15% of your daily recommended intake for iron and a whopping 30% for folate.
Plus, mung beans are low in calories and high in fiber, helping you feel full and satisfied while supporting healthy digestion.
Benefits
Health benefits galore
The high fiber content in mung beans aids in reducing cholesterol levels, which can help prevent heart disease.
Their high iron content makes them particularly beneficial for people with anemia or those seeking a natural energy boost.
Plus, the antioxidants present in mung beans play a crucial role in reducing inflammation and protecting against chronic diseases such as diabetes and cancer.
Incorporation
Incorporating mung beans into your diet
Mung beans can be incorporated into your diet in a variety of ways - whole, split, or sprouted.
They are a versatile ingredient in soups, salads, curries, and even desserts.
Sprouted mung beans add a nice crunch to salads or sandwiches.
Mung bean soup with vegetables or a stir-fry with sprouted mung beans can be a quick and healthy option for meals.
Cooking
Cooking tips for perfect mung beans every time
To cook mung beans perfectly, first rinse them under cold water and then soak them for several hours or overnight.
This step is not only reduces cooking time but also helps in easy digestion.
For cooking, maintain a ratio of three cups of water to one cup of dried beans.
Boil it, then let it simmer until they're tender. This should take around 20-30 minutes for whole or split beans.