Did you know string beans, also known as green beans, are a staple in many households?
Yes, and ever in yours. They are a great source of vitamins and minerals and they also can be prepared in a variety of ways.
However, have you ever tried long string beans? These elongated versions of the traditional green bean offer a unique texture, taste, and flavor that sets them apart from their shorter counterparts.
Here are all the benefits they provide and how every gardener can grow the beans.
Nutrition
Long string beans are an excellent source of vitamin C and vitamin K. They also contain small amounts of vitamin A, iron, and calcium. Additionally, they are low in calories and fat, making them a great addition to any healthy diet.
Preparation
One of the best things about long string beans is their versatility in the kitchen. They can be steamed, sautéed, roasted, or even grilled anyhow you like it.
They can be eaten as a side dish or added to salads and stir-fries at meals. They can also be pickled or canned for a delicious flavoring to sandwiches and antipasto platters.
One simple and tasty way to prepare long string beans is to steam them for about 5 minutes, then toss them with a little bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
They can also be sautéed with garlic and lemon juice for a flavorful side dish.
When buying long string beans, look for beans that are firm and have a bright green color. They should also snap easily when bent, if not they are old. Avoid beans that are limp or have brown spots as well.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a flavorful to your favorite recipes, long string beans are a great choice.
They offer a unique texture and flavor that sets them apart from regular green beans, and their versatility in the kitchen makes them a great choice for any meal, breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Give them a try the next time you’re at the grocery store or grow them at home.
So, since we are talking about home and growing your own long string beans. Let us look at how easily they can grow in the yard.
Growing Long String Beans in Your Home Garden
Long string beans are not only delicious, but they are also easy to grow in your own backyard garden.
These hardy bean plants thrive in warm weather and can be planted directly in the ground or in a container of your choosing. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun exposure based on past experience and tests.
When planting long string beans, it’s important to space them about 2-3 inches apart in rows that are 18-24 inches apart.
The long string bean plant typically takes around (50-60 days) to reach maturity, and will begin to produce beans once the plant has reached a height of about 6 inches.
It’s important to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
These string beans also benefit from regular fertilization, especially during the flowering and fruiting stages. They also require regular support, such as a trellis or stake.
How Harvest and Storing Long String Beans
Long string beans are ready to harvest when they are about 6-8 inches in length and still have a bright green color.
It’s important to harvest them before they start to yellow or become tough.
Once harvested, long string beans can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week and a half. They can also be frozen or canned for longer storage.
Are Long Beans the Same as Breen Beans?
Long beans and green beans are the same vegetables. They are both types of the same Phaseolus vulgaris, also known as the common bean.
Green beans are most often the immature form of the plant and are typically picked when they are around 2-3 inches in length.
Long beans, on the other hand, are the mature form of the plant, and are typically much longer, sometimes up to a foot or more in length.
The terms “green beans” and “long beans” they are often used interchangeably, but long beans are typically thought to have a different texture and flavor than green beans.
Final Thoughts
Long string beans are a delicious and versatile vegetable that can easily be incorporated into any meal.
They are also easy to grow in your own garden and a great addition to any backyard. With their unique texture and flavor, they’re definitely worth a try.
Whether you’re growing them in your own backyard or buying them at the grocery store, be sure to give long string beans a try.
