borlotti beans

Scientific Name: Phaseolus vulgaris

Flavour: Borlotti beans have a rich, nutty flavor with a creamy texture. They are often described as having a slightly sweet and earthy taste.

Growing Season: The growing season for borlotti beans typically begins in late spring or early summer, around May or June, and extends into the summer months, usually ending in September or October.

Native Region: Borlotti beans are native to Central America and are now widely cultivated in various regions around the world, including Europe, including parts of the Mediterranean and the British Isles.

Traditional Recipe: Borlotti Bean Stew.

Ingredients:

  • 250g dried borlotti beans (soaked overnight and drained)

  • 1 onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced

  • 2 carrots, diced

  • 2 celery stalks, diced

  • 400g tinned chopped tomatoes

  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

  • 500ml vegetable stock

  • 1 bay leaf

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.

  2. Sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery until softened.

  3. Add the soaked and drained borlotti beans to the pot and stir to combine with the vegetables.

  4. Pour in the tinned chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, and vegetable stock.

  5. Add the bay leaf and dried thyme to the pot. Season with salt and black pepper.

  6. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beans are tender, stirring occasionally.

  7. Adjust the seasoning if needed and remove the bay leaf.

  8. Serve the borlotti bean stew hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley. It pairs well with crusty bread.

Health Properties: Borlotti beans are packed with nutritional benefits. They are an excellent source of dietary fiber, protein, and complex carbohydrates. They also provide essential minerals such as iron, magnesium, and potassium, as well as vitamins B1, B6, and folate. Borlotti beans are known for their cholesterol-lowering properties, promoting digestive health, and contributing to balanced blood sugar levels.

Growing Technique:

Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-drained soil.

Sow the seeds directly into the soil after the last frost, usually in late spring or early summer.

Dig a trench or create small holes approximately 5cm deep and space them around 10-15cm apart, with rows spaced about 30cm apart.

Place one or two seeds in each hole or trench and cover them with soil.

Water the seeds thoroughly after planting and keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged throughout the growing season.

As the plants grow, provide support such as trellises or stakes for the bean vines to climb.

Weed the area regularly to prevent competition for nutrients and water.

Harvest the borlotti beans when the pods are fully mature and dry. The pods will turn a creamy beige color, and the beans inside will be firm and dry.

Allow the harvested beans to dry further indoors for a couple of weeks before shelling them. Store the shelled beans in a cool, dry place for long-term use, or cook and enjoy them fresh.