Vietnamese Red kidney beans are one of the most widely consumed legumes globally. Red kidney bean cultivation offers not only a rewarding experience for farmers but also a sustainable source of nutritious food.
Vietnamese Red kidney beans play an important role in agricultural production systems in nutrient-poor soils.
The production area of red beans is about 20 million hectares annually, grown in many countries around the world such as China, India, Japan, Korea, Taiwan and the area is increasing year by year.
Around the world, red beans are grown in arid regions with warm climates. They have the ability to fix nitrogen through the nodules, so they are suitable for nutrient-poor soils, soils with more than 85% sand, less than 0.2% humus, or phosphorus-poor soils. They can also be intercropped with maize, peanuts, sugarcane, cotton. Therefore, red beans play an important role in agricultural production systems in nutrient-poor soils
According to Rubatzky and Yamaguchi (1997) it is estimated that the annual production of red beans in China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan is 670 000 hectares, 120 000 hectares, 30 000 hectares and 2000 hectares, respectively.
In addition, the demand for high-quality red beans in Japan is huge. Currently, domestic production only meets 5%, the rest must be imported from other countries, mainly from China and Nigeria. . The Japanese consider products made from red beans a luxury dish.
Red beans have many uses, are easy to grow and get high yield.
Red bean is a seed crop, herbaceous type, which grows upright or can climb high. If allowed to climb freely, they can climb up to 90cm. The whole tree has long hairs, the tree is divided into many branches.
Choose a planting time
Most legumes such as green beans, black beans or red beans can be grown at any time of the year. But to achieve the highest yield, you should plant around February - June and November, December every year. When planted in the remaining months, the tree does not give a high yield because it is susceptible to attack by pests and diseases.
Planting: Red kidney beans can be sown directly into the prepared field or started in nurseries and transplanted later. The recommended spacing between plants is typically around 10-15 centimeters (4-6 inches) to provide sufficient room for growth and airflow.
Irrigation: Proper irrigation is crucial for red kidney bean cultivation. Depending on the specific region and weather conditions, farmers may adopt techniques such as furrow irrigation, sprinkler irrigation, or drip irrigation to provide the required moisture. Care is taken not to overwater, as excessive moisture can lead to diseases.
Fertilization: Farmers apply organic matter and balanced fertilizers to the soil to provide essential nutrients for plant growth. Common fertilizers used include nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The dosage and timing of fertilization depend on soil analysis and crop requirements.
Harvesting
It only takes about 45-55 days to start harvesting the first batch of red beans. Should choose fruits that have changed color to pick first. Every harvest until the tree is clean, then uproot it to make soil again. After harvesting, you should not leave the pile to dry immediately. Finally, peel off the shell, remove impurities and then let it dry in 1-2 days, then store it in a cool, dry place for later use or sale.
Culinary Uses of Red Kidney Beans.
Red kidney beans are used in a wide range of dishes, both traditional and modern. They are a key ingredient in classic dishes like chili con carne, where their meaty texture and rich flavor shine. Red kidney beans are also commonly used in soups, stews, salads, and bean-based spreads like hummus. In Vietnamese cuisine, red kidney beans are featured in various sweet treats, including puddings, sticky rice, and dessert soups.
Red kidney beans in Japanese cuisine:
Zenzai is a popular Japanese dessert made with red bean soup and mochi (glutinous rice cakes). The red kidney beans are simmered until soft and sweetened, creating a thick and comforting soup base. The addition of chewy mochi adds delightful texture to this beloved dessert.
Oshiruko is a warm and comforting red bean soup commonly consumed during the winter season. The red kidney beans are boiled until tender and combined with sugar to create a sweet and fragrant soup. Oshiruko is often enjoyed with mochi or toasted rice cakes for a satisfying treat.
Red kidney beans are transformed into a sweet and velvety paste called "anko." Anko is a staple ingredient in traditional Japanese sweets such as dorayaki (red bean pancake), taiyaki (fish-shaped pastry), and wagashi (traditional confections). The creamy texture and natural sweetness of red bean paste lend a unique flavor to these delectable treats.
The legend of red beans and the story of Ngu Lang - Chuc Nu
According to the concept of many countries, red beans are considered to be a good luck charm because the color red symbolizes goodness, joy, luck and happiness.
The Seventh Anniversary of the Seventh Day of the 7th lunar month is associated with the story of the painful love of the young man Nguu Lang and the youngest daughter of the Jade Emperor named Chuc Nu. On this day, in addition to the fact that it often rains, the people still have the habit of eating red bean tea. Many countries believe that red beans are foods that bring good luck because red symbolizes goodness, joy, luck and happiness.
In Vietnam, red kidney beans are commonly used to create sweet and delightful desserts. One popular dessert is "chè đậu đỏ," a sweet soup made by boiling red kidney beans with coconut milk, sugar, and sometimes the addition of glutinous rice or tapioca pearls.
Red Bean Paste: Red kidney beans are transformed into a sweet paste called "đỗ đen." This paste is used as a filling in various Vietnamese pastries and cakes, such as mooncakes, bánh bao (steamed buns), and bánh pía (flaky pastries). The velvety texture and subtly sweet flavor of the red bean paste enhance these traditional treats.
Red Bean Sticky Rice: Red kidney beans are combined with sticky rice, coconut milk, and sugar to create a vibrant and flavorful dish called "xôi đậu đỏ." This hearty and satisfying dish is often enjoyed as breakfast or a snack. The combination of sticky rice and red kidney beans provides a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Red kidney beans bring a delightful combination of taste, texture, and nutritional value to Vietnamese cuisine. From sweet desserts to hearty soups and savory dishes, their versatility makes them a beloved ingredient in Vietnamese culinary traditions. Whether you're indulging in a refreshing red bean dessert or savoring a comforting bowl of red bean soup, these culinary delights showcase the delicious possibilities of red kidney beans in Vietnamese cuisine.
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