Introducing Lablab Purpureus Beans

Lablab purpureus, commonly known as Hyacinth Beans or Lablab beans, is a high-yield bean variety that is easy to grow in your garden. With its beautiful flowers and nutritious beans, it's a great addition to any home garden.

This bean variety is also known by other names such as Australian pea, Dolichos lablab, avarakkai, and Val. It is native to Africa and has been cultivated for centuries for its edible pods and seeds.

Lablab purpureus beans are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are a good source of protein, fiber, iron, and vitamins. Including these beans in your diet can provide numerous health benefits.

Lablab purpureus beans in full bloom

Harvested Lablab purpureus beans

Growing Lablab Purpureus Beans

To grow Lablab purpureus beans, start by selecting a sunny spot in your garden with well-draining soil. These beans prefer warm weather and thrive in temperatures between 70°F and 85°F (21°C and 29°C).

Prepare the soil by removing any weeds and loosening it with a garden fork. You can also amend the soil with organic compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility and drainage.

Sow the Lablab purpureus seeds directly in the garden after all danger of frost has passed. Plant the seeds about 1 inch deep and 6-8 inches apart. Water the soil well after planting to ensure good seed germination.

As the plants grow, provide them with a trellis or support structure to climb on. Lablab purpureus is a vining plant that can reach heights of 10-15 feet. Regularly check the plants for pests and diseases, and take appropriate measures to protect them.

Harvest the Lablab purpureus beans when the pods are fully formed but still tender. You can enjoy them fresh or use them in various recipes. Let's explore a delicious Lablab purpureus recipe below!

Lablab purpureus beans growing on a trellis

Lablab Purpureus Beans Recipe: Spicy Bean Salad

One of my favorite recipes using Lablab purpureus beans is a spicy bean salad. It's a refreshing and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed as a side or a main course. Here's how you can make it:

Ingredients:

- 2 cups cooked Lablab purpureus beans - 1 cucumber, diced - 1 bell pepper, diced - 1 red onion, thinly sliced - 1 jalapeno pepper, minced - Juice of 1 lemon - 2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked Lablab purpureus beans, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeno pepper.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

3. Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture and toss to coat evenly.

4. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

This spicy bean salad is a great way to showcase the flavors of Lablab purpureus beans. It's perfect for summer cookouts or as a refreshing side dish any time of the year.

Spicy bean salad made with Lablab purpureus beans