Flat beans are medium in size, are long, flat, and slightly curved in shape. The pods are smooth, thick, and pale green, tapering to a point on both ends. There are typically 2-4 seeds contained in the pod that are white to buff, ovoid in shape, and slightly compressed or flattened.  They have a taste similar to green beans with a coarser and drier texture.

Health Benefits

Flat beans contain iron, magnesium, and calcium.

Usage

Flat beans are best suited for cooked applications such as stir-frying, baking, boiling, and sautéing. They are used extensively in Indian cuisine and are typically found in subzis or vegetable dishes, and they are often served as an accompaniment to meat or fish. Papdi beans can be added to salads, curries, soups, stews, and casseroles, or served as a stand-alone side dish. The beans should be washed thoroughly, and the string ends removed for proper cooking. Flat beans are also blanched prior to preparing and are usually cooked with coconut milk or coconut meat to neutralize the coarse taste. They pair well with dal or sambar rice, pumpkin, coconut milk, coriander leaves, turmeric, tamarind, garlic, onion, meats such as poultry, beef, and fish, bell pepper, and potatoes.

Storage

They will keep 3 to 4 weeks when stored in a cool and dry place.