Beans! The Man You Are, But Not Everyone Seems to Like You

Dear Reader,

Ah! So it’s finally my turn. I’ve been watching Rice enjoy all the attention, and I was beginning to wonder when you would come looking for me. 😂

I’m Beans! Yes, that same beans you either absolutely love or would rather not have anything to do with. There’s hardly any middle ground!

You know me in different ways. Sometimes I’m served as beans porridge, sometimes as Ewa Agoyin, akara or moi moi. And let’s not forget my special relationship with rice and plantain. Those combinations? A match made in the kitchen! 🤭

But can we take a moment to appreciate Ewa Agoyin and Agege bread? Especially the one you buy from your favourite buka, with the bread still warm and that delicious pepper sauce generously spread over the beans. Omo! That combination is hard to resist. 😭❤️

I know some of you you have a complicated relationship with me. You love eating me, but the bloating and gas afterwards ? Not so much.😂

Well, before you start blaming me, let’s talk about what I bring to your plate.

So, what’s inside me?

First things first, I’m a great source of plant-based protein, which your body needs for growth and repair.

I’m also rich in fibre, which supports digestion and helps keep you feeling full. I provide carbohydrates for energy and contain important nutrients like folate, iron, potassium and magnesium.

See? I’m doing quite a lot over here!

Why do I make some of you bloated? 👀

Ah, yes! We need to address this one. 😂

I contain certain carbohydrates that your digestive system cannot completely break down. When gut bacteria ferment me in your large intestine, gas is produced. That’s why some of you experience bloating and flatulence after eating me.

A little tip: soaking me before cooking, discarding the soaking water and cooking me thoroughly may help reduce some of these carbohydrates.

And please, don’t use this as an excuse to abandon me!

One last thing…

Dear Reader, I’m more than an affordable meal or something to eat when there’s no meat in the house. I’m a nutritious food that deserves a regular place in your diet.

Now, tell me the truth: are you team Beans Porridge, Ewa Agoyin, Akara or Moi Moi? And if you’re choosing Ewa Agoyin with Agege bread, I completely understand. 🤭

Yours sincerely,

Beans ( a.k.a Your man)

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