Sem Phali: The Nutrient Rich Lima Beans and How To Cook It

Beans are a staple in many different cuisines and for good reason: they're packed with nutrients and help make a healthy meal. They are a great option for vegans and anyone concerned about their health because they contain a lot of beneficial nutrients. Sem Phali, or lima beans, stand out from the crowd thanks to their distinct flavour and impressive list of health advantages. Unlock the potential of these nutrient-packed legumes for your overall health by learning about the surprising benefits of including Sem Phali in your diet, from improved digestion to increased heart health. 

Due to its unique flavour, easy preparation, and remarkable health advantages, broad beans (or 'Papdi') have steadily made their way into Indian kitchens, despite their origins in the agriculture of the Mediterranean and Africa. Green broad beans, often called fava beans, papdi, and sem ki phali, are a type of legume. They are long and narrow and have a gentle curvature. Green and velvety to the touch, that's the shell. There are usually three to six oval-shaped seeds in each pod. The strings on most of the wide beans need to be removed. They taste slightly earthy and sweet, but not overly so. 

Beans include a lot of good for you nutrients, thus eating them can help you keep your health. It has many advantages, including:  

Controls Cholesterol: Having a healthy heart is made possible by the beans' effect on cholesterol levels. Beans have been found to have a positive impact on cholesterol levels, thereby promoting cardiovascular health. 

Magnesium-rich: Beans are a rich source of magnesium and folate, both of which play a significant role in the prevention of peripheral vascular disease and heart attacks. Magnesium is a vital substance found in them that plays a crucial role in enhancing blood circulation and oxygen delivery throughout the body. 

Iron-rich: Iron deficiency during menstruation is a prevalent issue that can be effectively addressed by incorporating iron-rich beans into one's diet. 

Diabetic-friendly: Diabetic patients who exhibit insulin resistance may experience potential benefits from consuming these beans, as they have the ability to help regulate blood sugar levels. 

Weight management: If you are aiming to manage weight gain, lima beans are an excellent choice due to their fat-free nature. They supply the body with essential dietary fibre, which aids in alleviating symptoms of constipation. 

Increase blood levels: Individuals with anaemia can safely consume these food items, as they do not cause an increase in blood sugar levels post-consumption. 

Protein-rich: Individuals who choose to abstain from consuming meat can obtain their recommended daily intake of protein by incorporating a serving of lima beans into their diet. 

Controls Blood Pressure: Consuming low-sodium food can be beneficial in mitigating blood pressure issues, and these beans are an excellent choice for achieving that goal. 

Mineral-rich: Copper, a vital mineral, plays a crucial role in optimising liver function and bestowing the body with powerful antioxidants that bolster its ability to combat various diseases. 

Energy Boosting: This delectable delight not only boasts the remarkable ability to ward off cholesterol, but also bestows a generous supply of invigorating energy upon the body.

In Kitchen 

Lima beans and potatoes are cooked together in a rich and flavorful gravy, making for a hearty and comforting dish that can be served with rice or bread. 

A simple stir-fried dish where lima beans are sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and spices. It's a quick and nutritious side dish that pairs well with roti or chapati. 

A popular Maharashtrian dish, Usal features lima beans cooked in a spiced coconut gravy. It's often enjoyed with pav or as a side dish. 

Lima bean soups, when prepared with other vegetables, are the healthiest option because they include all the vital elements essential for our body. 

They would be delicious on corn tortillas with a dollop of guacamole and a sprinkle of diced tomatoes and avocado. 

Blend chopped garlic with lima bean puree for a tasty sandwich spread. 

Lima beans and sweet potatoes make a delicious side dish to a meal of rice and fresh veggies. 

These beans are versatile and can be used in both cold and hot dishes, such as salads. 

The calcium and manganese found in beans are fantastic for keeping bones healthy and strong.