Broad beans, also known as Hudou, Wandou, Luohandou, Nandou, Fodou, Shudou, Handou, Jiandou, Chuandou, or kidney beans, are a type of leguminous plant belonging to the genus Vicia. These are typically one- or two-year-old herbs that produce edible pods and seeds. The tender pods and young beans are often consumed for their soft texture, while the mature seeds can be used in various dishes. Depending on the size, they are categorized into small, medium, and large varieties. Large seeds are usually long, wide, and flat, making them ideal for many traditional recipes.
In terms of color, broad beans are divided into red and white types. Red varieties tend to mature earlier and have shorter stems, while white ones take longer to mature but are generally considered higher quality. Sowing times vary by region: in South China, they are sown in winter and harvested in spring; in southern areas of the Yangtze River and southwest regions, they are planted in spring; and in the north, spring sowing is also common.
Harvesting requirements depend on the intended use. For fresh consumption, the lower part of the pods should have a glossy appearance, and the seeds must be fully developed but not yet hardened. Harvesting is usually done in 3–4 stages. When harvesting dried pods, the lower parts of the plants should turn dark brown and the pods should be completely dry.
Fresh broad beans are best sold immediately after harvest, while dried beans are more durable and suitable for long-term storage. During transportation and retail, fresh broad beans are commonly packed in sacks or baskets, and care is taken to protect them from rain and direct sunlight to maintain quality.
For fresh sales, the beans should look plump, with a normal color and no signs of blackening, rot, water damage, or pest infestation. Dried broad beans, on the other hand, are usually soaked before sale to ensure they do not sprout. They should have a slightly cracked seed coat, with shoots emerging but without visible cotyledon development. The pods should be crisp, not soft, and free from mold, discoloration, or unpleasant odors.
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