Borlotti beans have distinctive creamy-coloured pods, flecked with bright crimson-red. Inside, the beans are a reddish-brown colour. Borlotti beans are picked both when the beans are fresh and when they have dried – when dried, they need to be soaked before using in cooking. Borlotti beans are used a lot in Italian cuisine – their savoury, meaty flavours are delicious in soups, casseroles and salads. They’re available all year round.

To Buy

Look for brightly coloured borlotti beans, with smooth, firm pods

To Store

Borlotti beans should be used relatively soon after purchase. If necessary, store in a plastic bag in the crisper section of the fridge for 3 to 4 days.

To Prepare

Split the pod to remove the beans. Simmer beans until just tender. If using dried borlotti beans, soak overnight then drain before using in cooking.
Quick ideas with BORLOTTI BEANS

1. For a fresh salad, cook beans until just tender then allow to cool. Drizzle with olive oil and toss together with diced tomatoes, chopped basil leaves, diced red onion and a little lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper then serve as a light lunch or with fish.
2. Make a hearty winter soup by cooking chopped onion, garlic and bacon in a little olive oil until soft. Add canned tomatoes, herbs, stock and borlotti beans then cook until beans are tender

Nutritional Information:

Borlotti beans are a good source of vitamin C. Among other benefits, this vitamin helps in wound healing, as well as helping to maintain a healthy immune system. Borlotti beans are also a good source of dietary fibre, which is important to keep the digestive system functioning effectively.

QUANTITIES STATED ABOVE ARE AVERAGES ONLY
PLEASE NOTE

This information may vary due to seasonal influences and varietal differences. This fact sheet is not a substitute for specific dietary advice.