Drying Bean seeds such as Black Turtle, Red Kidney and Barlotti Bean seeds are excellent protein sources when combined with whole grains, nuts or small amounts of meat or fish. CERTIFIED ORGANIC beans also contain fibre and minerals (remember to discard the soaking and cooking water to decrease flatulence). When dry, shell pods individually or bash plants back and forth in a bag or pillowcase. We recommend sowing early (mid-May) so plants can mature as many pods as possible. Wait till the pods are straw coloured, then pull the plant up and hang to dry.
Note: All drying beans should be cooked prior to eating. Fresh kidney beans (and others) contain mild toxins that can cause nausea if eaten raw. Cooking neutralizes these properties.
