Pole Bean (Green Bean)

Phaseolus vulgaris

Plant protein, eaten pod and all - the climbing green bean

Pole beans are a climbing type of common bean, grown not for the mature dried seeds but for the tender young pods you eat whole, the way you would a green bean or snap bean. Because they climb a support, they pack a generous harvest into a small garden plot, and they deliver plenty of plant protein and fiber. For the protein content and research behind the mature dried seeds, see our entry on the common (kidney) bean.

Year-Round Calendar

Sowing

Harvest

Health Benefits

Shares the evidence base with common beans. Pole beans (the edible-pod green bean) are simply a climbing variety of the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris), so they share the same evidence base for protein and fiber. For the detailed nutrient profile, health benefits, and supporting research, see the common bean entry.

Nutrition

Plant protein (in the young pods) — Muscle support and satiety
Fiber and vitamin K — Gut and vascular health

Pairings

○ Garlic (stir-fried) — Saute with garlic in a little oil to bring out their crisp-tender bite and aroma.

○ Sesame (seasoned) — Blanch, then toss with sesame seeds and sesame oil for a nutty namul-style side dish.

○ Salads — Briefly blanched and tossed into a salad, they add color and crunch.

Source: Rural Development Administration (Nongsaro)