French beans are a member of the Fabaceae family along with the common bean, pulses and peas. They are specifically bred and cultivated for their pods versus their seeds. This designates them as a fresh picking bean versus a canning bean or a bean grown for dry use as a legume. There are several types of French bean varieties and they can be found in colors of green, yellow and purple.

French beans are harvested anywhere from three to four inches in length, when their texture and flavor is at its peak. French beans have a thin, cylindrical shape with plump indentations along their contour, outlining the peas inside, which are shelled tightly within the bean flesh. The peas, which are essentially the bean's seeds, are a vibrant lime green in color, semi starchy in texture with a mild taste of the beans sweet and grassy flavors.

Nutritional Value

French beans provide less starch and protein than dried bean varieties, though they have higher levels of Vitamin A and Vitamin C.

Serving Ideas

Young French bean pods may be prepared whole, eaten raw, or lightly steamed or sauteed. Use in salads or saute with other vegetables and may also be canned and quick-pickled. Pair with summer vegetables such as squash, eggplant, and tomatoes; compliment with fresh herbs, citrus, nuts, raisins or currants, and mild cheeses. French green beans will keep refrigerated for up to two weeks.

Geography/History

French beans' ancestors are native to South and Central Americas. It was not until the late 16th century that green beans were introduced to France via the Conquistadors. It would remain a low profile vegetable among common agrarians though until the 19th century, when the French made the bean a household vegetable, the name Haricot Verts ultimately branding the bean as French indefinitely. Yet, there is little difference, botanically between a French bean and a green bean, though sub varieties and improved cultivars continue to be developed. The first string-less green bean was developed in New York State by Calvin Keeney in 1894.

Seasons/Availability

French beans are available year round with a peak season in summer.