Forget Fancy Foods, Beans are Where It's At

Beans are from the legume family, their fancy science name is Phaseolus vulgaris. They've been around for ages – over 8,000 years! The Aztecs adored them, even using beans as a type of currency. In Mexico, where beans are a staple, you'll find over 70 crazy varieties of all colors of the rainbow.

Forget Fancy Foods, Beans are Where It's At
A colorful assortment of dried beans, including pinto, black, and white varieties.

Beans in Mexico – those humble heroes – aren't just a side dish. No, these legumes are the ultimate wingmen to breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even those cheeky in-between-meal burritos.

You see, these little guys, known scientifically as Phaseolus vulgaris (who knew, right?), have been hanging out on Mexican plates for over 8,000 years. The Aztecs even used 'em as money! Talk about versatile. And get this: Mexico boasts over 70 varieties of beans, from the classic black bean to the exotic purple pinto.