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Soldier Bean
Legumes
Nutri-ScoreA

Soldier Bean

Phaseolus vulgaris

Clinical Encyclopedia

The soldier bean is a variety of common bean known for its distinctive color pattern and high nutritional value. It is rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet.

Scientific NamePhaseolus vulgaris
Region of OriginCentral and South America

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories127 kcal
Water
10.2%
Fiber6.4g
Total32.0g
Protein
8.7g(27%)
Fats
0.5g(2%)
Carbohydrates
22.8g(71%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Health Benefits

Rich in protein, soldier beans provide essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth.
High fiber content aids in digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
Good source of folate, which is important for DNA synthesis and repair, and crucial during pregnancy.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Raw or undercooked soldier beans contain toxins that can cause gastrointestinal distress; always cook thoroughly.
!Individuals with legume allergies should avoid soldier beans to prevent allergic reactions.

How to Prepare & Consume

Soak overnight and cook thoroughly to eliminate toxins. Can be used in soups, stews, or salads.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose soldier beans that are firm and free from cracks or blemishes. Look for beans with a vibrant color and avoid any that appear dull or discolored.

How to Store

Store dried soldier beans in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. They can last for up to a year if stored properly.

Myths vs Realities

MythSoldier beans are toxic and should never be eaten.+
RealityWhile raw soldier beans contain toxins, cooking them thoroughly eliminates these toxins, making them safe to eat.
MythAll beans are the same nutritionally.+
RealityDifferent beans have varying nutritional profiles; soldier beans are particularly high in protein and fiber.
MythYou can't eat soldier beans if you're allergic to other legumes.+
RealityWhile some individuals may be allergic to multiple legumes, soldier beans are not inherently allergenic to everyone.

Healthy Recipes

Spicy Soldier Bean Salad

A refreshing and protein-packed salad featuring soldier beans, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lime dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked soldier beans
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked soldier beans, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and jalapeño.
  2. 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss well, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Soldier Bean and Quinoa Bowl

A nutritious bowl filled with soldier beans, quinoa, and roasted vegetables, perfect for a hearty lunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked soldier beans
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the zucchini, bell pepper, and carrot with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, then spread on a baking sheet.
  2. 2. Roast the vegetables for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
  3. 3. In a bowl, combine the cooked soldier beans, quinoa, and roasted vegetables. Mix well and serve warm.

Soldier Bean Hummus

A creamy and healthy twist on traditional hummus using soldier beans, perfect for dipping or spreading.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked soldier beans
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 garlic clove
  • Salt to taste
  • Water as needed
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, combine the soldier beans, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth, adding water gradually to reach desired consistency.
  3. 3. Serve with fresh vegetables or whole grain pita chips.

Soldier Bean Stir-Fry

A quick and colorful stir-fry featuring soldier beans and a mix of vibrant vegetables for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked soldier beans
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add ginger and sauté for 1 minute.
  2. 2. Add broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot, stir-frying for about 5 minutes until tender-crisp.
  3. 3. Stir in the soldier beans and soy sauce, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

Soldier Bean Tacos

Delicious and healthy tacos filled with seasoned soldier beans, topped with fresh salsa and avocado.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked soldier beans
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 4 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat the soldier beans with cumin and chili powder until warmed through.
  2. 2. Warm the corn tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
  3. 3. Assemble the tacos by filling each tortilla with the seasoned soldier beans, topping with avocado slices, salsa, and cilantro.

Soldier Bean Soup

A hearty and comforting soup made with soldier beans, vegetables, and aromatic spices for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked soldier beans
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. 2. Add the cooked soldier beans, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
  3. 3. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Blend if desired for a creamy texture, or serve chunky.

Soldier Bean and Sweet Potato Mash

A nutritious mash combining soldier beans and sweet potatoes, perfect as a side dish or a healthy spread.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked soldier beans
  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Boil the sweet potato cubes until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
  2. 2. Add the cooked soldier beans, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the sweet potatoes.
  3. 3. Mash together until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as needed.

Soldier Bean and Spinach Frittata

A protein-rich frittata featuring soldier beans and fresh spinach, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked soldier beans
  • 4 eggs
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add spinach until wilted.
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, and pepper. Stir in the soldier beans and feta cheese.
  3. 3. Pour the egg mixture over the spinach in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until edges set. Transfer to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until fully set.

Soldier Bean Burgers

Healthy and flavorful burgers made with soldier beans, oats, and spices, perfect for grilling.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked soldier beans
  • 1/2 cup oats
  • 1/4 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mash the soldier beans and mix in oats, onion, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  2. 2. Form the mixture into patties. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  3. 3. Serve on whole grain buns with your favorite toppings.

Mediterranean Soldier Bean Dip

A flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dip made with soldier beans, herbs, and spices, perfect for entertaining.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked soldier beans
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 garlic clove
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pita bread for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, combine soldier beans, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth, adjusting seasoning as needed.
  3. 3. Serve with warm pita bread for dipping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are soldier beans?

Soldier beans are a type of common bean characterized by their unique color pattern, often resembling a soldier's uniform.

How do I cook soldier beans?

Soak the beans overnight, then boil them for about 1-1.5 hours until tender.

Are soldier beans healthy?

Yes, they are high in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a healthy addition to meals.

Can I eat soldier beans raw?

No, raw soldier beans contain toxins that can cause illness; they must be cooked properly.

What dishes can I make with soldier beans?

They can be used in soups, stews, salads, or as a side dish.

How do soldier beans compare to other beans?

They are similar in nutritional value to other beans but have a unique flavor and texture.

Where can I buy soldier beans?

They can be found in health food stores, specialty grocery stores, or online.

How should I store soldier beans?

Store dried soldier beans in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain freshness.