The first "stringless" bean was bred in 1894 by Calvin Keeney, called the "father of the stringless bean", while working in Le Roy, New York.
In 2020, world production of green beans was 23 million tonnes, with China accounting for 77% of the total (table). The green bean ( Phaseolus vulgaris) originated in Central and South America where there is evidence that it has been cultivated in Mexico and Peru for thousands of years. In a 100 gram (3.5 oz) reference amount, raw green beans supply 31 calories and are a moderate source (range 10-19% of the Daily Value) of vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, and manganese (table). Raw green beans are 90% water, 7% carbohydrates, 2% protein, and contain negligible fat (table). Green beans are also sold dried or fried with vegetables such as carrots, corn, and peas, as vegetable chips. Another popular dish, coo, consists solely of bean seeds that have been removed from their enclosing pods. Some US restaurants serve green beans that are battered and fried, such as green bean tempura. Green beans can be pickled, similarly to cucumbers.Ī dish with green beans common throughout the northern US, particularly at Thanksgiving, is green bean casserole, a dish of green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and French-fried onions. They are commonly cooked in other dishes, such as soups, stews, and casseroles.
They can be eaten raw or steamed, boiled, stir-fried, or baked. †Percentages are roughly approximated using US recommendations for adults.Īs common food in many countries, green beans are sold fresh, canned, and frozen.