Nature’s super food

Legumes have been around, and enjoyed, since the beginning of human civilization. Known as an excellent source of protein and fibre, legumes are plants that usually open on two sides, otherwise known as a pod. There are various kinds of legumes with peas, beans and lentils classified as grain legumes.

The great thing about legumes?

They contain slow-releasing fibre that keeps your body and mind energised without causing your blood sugar levels to rise. The soluble fibre in beans is what enables this low GI index keeping you feeling fuller for longer. They are a great option for people with diabetes, hyperglycaemia or anybody else that wants to avoid the 3pm vending machine attack.

With a naturally high level of iron, beans are particularly good for adolescents and pregnant women. They also contains copper, magnesium, folic acid, vitamin B6 and is packed full of antioxidants. These little super foods help to lower the risk of heart disease and various types of cancer. In fact, research has shown that there is an 82% reduction in the risk of heart disease when you eat legumes regularly.

When combined with grains like brown rice or pasta, legumes offer a complete meal with the same amount of protein as red meat, but without the fat and cholesterol. The perfect excuse to whip up some tasty bean burritos!

• Adapt your favourite meat dish by replacing half of the meat with legumes. You’ll also save money in the process.
• Stock your pantry with a variety of legumes for a quick meal or tasty side dish. By varying the legumes you eat, you’ll make sure that you get all the nutritional benefits.
• When you cook soups, stews and casseroles, add some beans for added protein and nutrition.
• Celebrate Meat Free Mondays with a hearty bean dish. Need some help? Check out our recipe section here.
• Experiment with new legumes every week - most supermarkets stock a wide variety that are available all year round.
• Vary your lunches with a bean soup, curry or some extra beans in your salad.
• Use pureed beans as the basis for dips and spreads.

Beans are available all year round, and if stored properly, will last for over a year. It’s the perfect addition to any pantry and makes whipping up healthy food, super easy.

Extra nutritious. Extra delicious.