Tujia Kidney Beans

Tujia Kidney Beans

　　Kidney beans, also known as flower beans, are named for their shape resembling the human kidney and their red, vein-like patterns covering the surface. In ancient times, they were tribute to the imperial court and thus called sacred beans or emperor beans. Some are shaped like money purses, earning them names such as wealth-attracting beans, purse beans, or prosperity beans. It is said that long-term consumption can nourish yin and yang, strengthen the body, and boost energy, hence also referred to as waist-strengthening beans or yang-strengthening beans. They have a mild nature and sweet flavor, and are believed to dispel dampness, enrich blood, aid digestion, strengthen kidneys, beautify the skin, and prevent aging. Kidney beans have an exceptionally delicious taste, with a texture that is smooth, tender, savory, and mealy—truly unique among beans. Dishes such as chicken, duck, or pork knuckle stewed with kidney beans are excellent choices for entertaining guests or serving at banquets. Rich in protein and various vitamins, they make for a fine dish at any feast.