¼ teaspoon of salt
¼ teaspoon of garlic powder
½ teaspoon of black pepper
1 pound of green beans (fresh or frozen)
½ a cup of chicken stock (use vegetable broth for vegan and vegetarian)
1 tablespoon of unsalted butter (*Use a butter swap like this one HERE to make this recipe Vegan-friendly!)
From Ancient Origins to Global Kitchens: The History of Green Beans
Green beans, also known as string beans or snap beans, have a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Here's a detailed look at their origins and evolution:
Origins
Green beans originated in Central and South America. They were first cultivated in Peru and then spread to other regions of the Americas. Evidence suggests that the domestication of green beans occurred around 7,000 years ago. The indigenous peoples of the Americas cultivated various types of beans, including green beans, as a staple food crop.
Introduction to Europe
Green beans were introduced to Europe in the 16th century following the voyages of Christopher Columbus and other explorers. The Spanish and Portuguese explorers brought them back from their expeditions to the New World. The beans quickly gained popularity across Europe due to their versatility and ease of cultivation.
Development and Cultivation
Initially, green beans had tough, fibrous strings running along the seams, which gave them the name "string beans." In the late 19th century, botanists and horticulturists in the United States and Europe began developing stringless varieties. Calvin Keeney, an American horticulturist, is credited with developing the first stringless green bean variety in 1894, which revolutionized green bean cultivation and consumption.
Spread to Asia and Africa
Green beans were introduced to Asia and Africa through trade and colonization. In these regions, they were integrated into local cuisines and agricultural practices. Today, green beans are widely grown in many Asian and African countries, where they are enjoyed in a variety of traditional dishes.
Modern Cultivation and Varieties
Green beans are now cultivated worldwide and are a popular vegetable in many cuisines. They come in various types, including bush beans and pole beans. Bush beans grow on compact plants and are easier to harvest, while pole beans grow on climbing vines and require support. There are also numerous hybrid varieties that offer improved disease resistance, higher yields, and different flavors and textures.
Nutritional Value and Uses
Green beans are valued for their nutritional benefits, including being low in calories and rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and folic acid. They can be eaten raw, steamed, boiled, stir-fried, or incorporated into casseroles and salads.
Culinary Significance
Green beans hold a significant place in various culinary traditions around the world. In French cuisine, they are known as "haricots verts" and are often served as a side dish. In Southern American cuisine, green beans are commonly cooked with bacon or ham. In Asian cuisines, they are frequently stir-fried with garlic and soy sauce or included in vegetable medleys.
Conclusion
From their origins in Central and South America to their global presence today, green beans have evolved significantly over the centuries. They continue to be a versatile and nutritious component of diets worldwide, appreciated for their flavor, texture, and health benefits.
Need Help Developing A Plan For Self-Care
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About The Author:
Dr. Nikki LeToya White MSEd-TL, Ph.D. RHN is the founder, director, and full-time board-certified trauma-informed nutritionist, folk herbalist, and wellness consultant at Spiced Life Conversation Art Wellness Studio and Botanica. She created Spiced Life Conversation, LLC
Art Wellness Studio and Botanica to provide the Metro Atlanta area with counseling and coaching services where clients are carefully matched with the right program for healing abandonment and childhood emotional neglect trauma that cause codependency, emotional eating, financial stress, and imposter syndrome as it relates to fear of success and being abandon. We help you begin your emotional healing journey with ease. Recently, we have expanded to include an online membership site so we now provide support to people living all over the world. All of our recovery coaches provide at least one evidence-based treatment to assist in your recovery. Dr. White is a big proponent of self-care and helping people live a fulfilling life! She has been in full remission with both codependency and emotional binge eating disorder since 2016. In living a life in recovery from sugar addiction. Loving her low-sugar balance lifestyle.
Best Regards
Dr. Nikki LeToya White
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