Adzuki Beans

Healing Foods

Adzuki Beans

Here's a tasty way to get more fiber, along with plenty of disease-fighting flavonoid

Legumes are loaded with antioxidants, and adzuki beans are no exception. The small, dark red beans have a sweet, nutty flavor and are often used in Asian desserts. They are easy to digest and filled with flavonoids, which are part of a bigger family of antioxidants called polyphenols. These compounds may lower your risk of heart disease, cancer, and stroke. Among beans, adzukis are one of the highest in protein and lowest in fat. Other benefits include high levels of potassium and fiber, B vitamins, and minerals such as iron and zinc.

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Rice and Barley with Gingered Adzuki Beans

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The Japanese have long enjoyed rice with barley. Cooking the grains uncovered in a substantial amount of water ensures a perfect texture every time. Hulled or semipearled barley (they’?re the same) and canned adzuki beans are available at natural foods stores and some supermarkets.

Miso-Adzuki Stew

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Small, dark red adzuki beans have a sweet, nutty flavor and are often used in Asian desserts. Here, they’re flavored with miso and shiitake mushrooms for a satisfying, protein-packed stew.

Curried Beans and Greens

Here’s a hearty one-dish meal that’s high in calcium to help prevent cold-weather muscle cramps and rich with warming spices to boost circulation. Small, reddish-brown adzuki beans have a sweet flavor and are popular in Japanese cooking. They have a higher protein content than other beans and are