Kidney Bean for Dummies

Now, let's get into a bit more detail. Kidney beans are a variety of the common bean known scientifically as Phaseolus vulgaris. These beans got their name because they resemble the shape and color of a healthy kidney. The texture of kidney beans is quite smooth and tender when cooked, and they are commonly reddish-brown in color.

Speaking of color, kidney beans come in different shades, ranging from dark red to light red and even white. And just like other beans, they are packed with nutritional goodness! Kidney beans are an excellent source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are particularly rich in molybdenum, folate, iron, and manganese, which are essential for our body's overall health and functioning.

But wait, there's more! Another meaning of "kidney bean" can refer to the plant itself. Kidney bean plants are actually climber vines that produce these beans as their fruit. These plants can grow to be quite tall and are usually cultivated in gardens or farms.

Now, to help you better remember and understand this concept, let's imagine you have a plate in front of you. On one side, you have a real human kidney - squishy, reddish-brown, and shaped like a bean. On the other side, you have a plate filled with cooked kidney beans that are similar in shape and color to the kidney. See, they remind us of kidneys, both in appearance and in their nutrient-rich goodness!

So, to sum it all up, "Kidney Bean" refers to a type of bean that looks like a healthy human kidney. It also refers to the plant that produces these beans as its fruit. These beans are packed with essential nutrients and are a great addition to a healthy diet. Whether you're imagining kidney-shaped beans on a plate or climbing bean plants in a garden, I hope this explanation helps you understand what "kidney bean" means!