Beans vs Legumes – Difference and Comparison

What are Beans?

Beans are an incredibly versatile and nutritious food that is enjoyed all over the world. They are an excellent source of protein and are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Beans are a type of legume and come in various shapes, sizes, and colors.

Common bean varieties include black beans, kidney beans, garbanzo beans, and pinto beans, as well as others. They can be eaten individually, added to salads, soups, stews, and chili, or blended into a dip or spread.

Beans can make a hearty vegetarian burger patty or a delicious side dish. When cooked, beans include about 15 grams of protein per cup, making them a great source of plant-based protein. They are also an excellent source of dietary fiber, with one cup providing approximately 13 grams of fiber. Dietary fiber helps to regulate digestion and can help to reduce cholesterol levels.

Beans are also a great source of minerals, such as iron and magnesium, and vitamins, such as folate and vitamin B6. They are also a good source of carbohydrates, with one cup of cooked beans providing around 40 grams of carbohydrates.

What are Legumes?

Legumes are plant-based foods that are considered a healthy part of any diet. Legumes are high in dietary fiber and protein and low in fat. Legumes are also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Legumes are a diverse group of plants that includes beans, lentils, peas, peanuts, and chickpeas. These foods can be enjoyed in various ways, from salads to soups to stews. Legumes are also used to make plant-based proteins, such as tofu and tempeh.

Legumes are a great source of dietary fiber. Dietary fiber helps to keep your digestive system healthy and regular. It can also lower cholesterol and help to regulate blood sugar levels. Legumes are also a good source of protein and can be an excellent substitute for animal protein.

Legumes are also rich in vitamins and minerals. They are excellent folate, iron, magnesium, and potassium sources. Legumes are also a good source of B vitamins essential for energy production and metabolism. Legumes are also rich in antioxidants. These antioxidants can help to protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Legumes are also a great source of phytonutrients, plant-based compounds that can help protect against disease. Legumes are a great addition to any healthy diet.

Difference Between Beans and Legumes

  1. Beans are the seeds of certain varieties of legumes, while legumes refer to the family of plants that includes beans, peas, lentils, and other edible seeds.
  2. Beans are cooked and eaten whole, while legumes are split, peeled, or ground into flour.
  3. Beans are high in starch, while legumes are a great source of dietary fiber.
  4. Beans are harvested, dried, and stored for later use, while legumes can be eaten fresh or dried.
  5. Beans are cooked in a pot on the stove, while legumes can be cooked in many different ways.

Comparison Between Beans and Legumes

Parameters of ComparisonBeansLegumes
CultivationBeans are cultivated for their edible seeds.Legumes are grown for their edible pods, leaves, and seeds.
Nutritional ValueBeans are high in protein and fiber.Legumes contain other essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
VarietyBeans come in wide varieties: kidney, black, pinto, navy, and garbanzo.Legumes include chickpeas, lentils, split peas, and peanuts.
UsesBeans are used in salads, soups, and chili.Legumes can be used in various dishes, including stews, curries, and salads.  
StorageBeans can be stored for a long time.Legumes should be eaten fresh for best results.

References

  1. Beans (Phaseolus spp.) – model food legumes | SpringerLink
  2. Legumes:An Overview | RADS Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (juw.edu.pk)