Dragon tongue bean

Beans in Ventimiglia

Dragon tongue bean is a variety of snap bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) known for its striking appearance and culinary versatility. This heirloom vegetable, often celebrated in gardening and culinary arts, features pods that are cream-colored with purple streaks or mottling, which fade upon cooking. Dragon tongue beans are appreciated for their unique flavor and tender texture, making them a favored ingredient in a variety of dishes.

Description

Dragon tongue bean plants are bush-type beans that grow approximately 2 feet tall. They produce 6 to 8-inch long, flat pods that are notable for their distinctive cream color with purple streaks. The beans inside the pods are similarly colored until they mature. As with many other varieties of snap beans, the entire pod can be eaten when young and tender. The beans are known for their mild, yet distinctly sweet and nutty flavor, which has made them a popular choice among chefs and home cooks alike.

Cultivation

Cultivation of dragon tongue beans is similar to that of other bush bean varieties. They prefer well-drained soil and a sunny location. Seeds should be sown directly into the ground after the last frost when the soil has warmed. Dragon tongue beans are typically ready to harvest in 60 to 70 days after planting. To encourage continuous production, beans can be picked regularly once they start to mature.

Culinary Uses

In the kitchen, dragon tongue beans can be used in a wide range of dishes. They can be eaten raw in salads, where their colorful appearance can be a visual highlight. Cooking, especially blanching or steaming, causes the purple streaks to fade, but the beans retain their delicious flavor and tender-crisp texture. They are excellent in stir-fries, sautés, and as a side dish. Additionally, these beans can be preserved by pickling, which allows their unique flavor to be enjoyed year-round.

Nutritional Value

Like other snap beans, dragon tongue beans are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. They are low in calories and can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet.

Cultural Significance

The dragon tongue bean, with its heirloom status, carries cultural significance in various communities. It is often featured in heritage gardens and traditional recipes, where it is celebrated for both its taste and ornamental value. The bean's unique appearance and history make it a subject of interest among gardeners, cooks, and food historians.

See Also

• Heirloom vegetable
• Snap bean
• Culinary arts
• Gardening

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