How to cook mung beans

Mung beans are a small, green legume that is often used in Indian cuisine. Mung beans can be cooked in a variety of ways, including boiling, simmering, or frying. They are an excellent source of protein and dietary fiber. In this blog post, we will teach you how to cook mung beans using two simple methods. Enjoy!

What are mung beans?

-Mung beans are a member of the legume family. Legumes are healthy foods because they are rich in fiber and protein. Mung beans contain significant amounts of both fiber and protein, which makes them an excellent addition to any diet. According to Dr Charles Stanley’s Total Health Program, “mung beans are sometimes called ‘bean sprouts’ due to their sprouting ability.” BUT…what exactly is a sprout? A sprout is defined as an embryonic plant contained within a seed or grain that produces leaves or roots after it germinates. Sprouts have become increasingly popular among foodies because they are easy-to-digest, quick-to-prepare, and low-calorie compared to the original source.

Are mung beans healthy?

-Yes! Mung beans are very healthy because they are high in several nutrients that your body needs. According to Dr Stanley, ” 100 grams of mung beans contain 229 calories. They contain 20% of the daily required fiber all for only 229 calories!” Furthermore, the mung bean is naturally cholesterol-free and low sodium.

How many calories are in mung beans?

-One serving of mung beans contains approximately 262 calories. One serving of mung beans has about 50 more calories than a comparable size serving of brown rice or white rice. When compared on an ounce-by-ounce basis, mung beans have almost TWICE as many Calories/Ounces than white rice and brown rice. Therefore, if you are looking to lower your daily caloric intake, it is important to be mindful of how much mung beans you use in each preparation.

-Mung beans are a nutrient-dense food, and because they can be used in several ways to make different dishes, there is a great deal of potential for mung beans to contribute to a healthful diet.

Cooking mung beans stovetop method

-INGREDIENTS: 1 cup of mung beans (cleaned and rinsed) 4 cups water (enough to cover the beans) 1 tsp salt (optional) DIRECTIONS: Place mung beans and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to boil over medium heat. Once boiling, simmer for about 15-20 minutes until tender. Drain excess liquid from cooked beans using colander or strainer then season with salt (optional). ENJOY!

Cooking mung beans microwave method

-INGREDIENTS: 1 cup of mung beans (cleaned and rinsed) 2 cups + 2 tbsp water DIRECTIONS: Combine all ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl or dish. Cover with plastic wrap or lid, leaving one corner open to vent steam. Microwave on high for 10 minutes, then check beans for tenderness. Continue cooking until tender (about 2-3 more minutes). Drain excess liquid from cooked beans using colander or strainer then season with salt (optional).

Cooking tips:

– If you would like to add salt, ghee, or spices to your dish, do so after the mung beans have been cooked and drained.

– For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, cumin seeds, curry leaves, dark leafy greens such as spinach or kale, and/or grated coconut.

– Make sure to thoroughly wash the soaked mung beans in a strainer under running water before cooking. This will help remove any dirt particles that remain from the soaking process.

– The amount of time needed to cook mung beans depends on how much you are cooking and whether they were soaked (pre-soaking shortens the cooking time).

Cooking tip for soaking mung beans:

– Mung beans should be soaked in water overnight before preparing them. When soaking the mung beans, it is important that you change/rinse out the water regularly. You can also add a little lemon juice to help with removing the outer covering of the bean and make for easier digestion.

– If you do not have time to soak your mung beans overnight, soak them in hot water for 4 hours and then rinse under cold running water before cooking so that they cook faster.

Tips for storing mung beans:

– Cooked mung beans can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and in a freezer for up to a month.

– If you would like to freeze cooked mung beans, then simply transfer the cooked dish into a freezer-safe container before placing it into the freezer. This way, it won’t take up much room!

Instant pot mung beans:

– Soak the mung beans for 4-6 hours (or overnight) and drain.

– Add all ingredients (soaked mung beans, 1 cup of water, and salt) to the Instant Pot and use the manual setting for 5 minutes on high pressure. Allow time to pass until you hear a beep indicating that it is finished.

– After opening your Instant Pot, fluff with a fork and enjoy!

Slow cooker mung beans:

– Soak the mung beans for 4-6 hours (or overnight) and drain.

– Add all ingredients (soaked mung beans, 1 cup of water, and salt) to a slow cooker set on high for 3-4 hours or low for 5-7 hours.

How to store mung beans:

– Mung beans can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 2 years.

How to rinse and clean mung beans:

– Rinse the mung beans under cold water until the water runs clear before cooking them. This will help get rid of any dirt particles that may remain. 

– It is also advisable to soak the beans overnight (6 hours) and then rinse well under running water to ensure they cook evenly.

Conclusions:

-Adding salt, ghee or spices to your cooked mung beans is optional. It is best to add these ingredients after cooking and draining because this will give you a chance to adjust the seasoning of the dish according to your preferences.

-If you are looking for more information about legumes, be sure to check out our ever-growing list of Bean Recipes as well as this Vegetarian Chili. We also have a big index full of Legumes Recipes so take some time and explore!