Beans are an essential pantry item around the globe. They’re affordable, packed with protein and fiber, and their culinary possibilities are virtually unlimited. Depending on where you are in the world, beans can take on very different roles. Sometimes they’re even used in desserts! Here’s a breakdown of some popular global dishes that highlight the mighty bean.

Mexico: Frijoles de la Olla

Beans are popular in Mexican cuisine and are eaten as a side dish, used as a dip or stuffed inside tortillas. You’ve probably tried the classic refried beans, but have you tried the traditional bean stew known as frijoles de la olla? Like many tasty bean dishes, it couldn’t be easier to make. Try this recipe: Frijoles de la Olla.

India: Chana Masala

Found in both Indian and Pakistani cuisines, chana masala is a chickpea dish with a spicy, savory sauce. Other ingredients in the dish commonly include onion, tomatoes, coriander, garlic, chillies and ginger. It’s served as a snack or breakfast dish alongside pieces of fried bread. Get the recipe: Chana Masala

Egypt: Ful Medames

The national dish of Egypt, ful medames is a breakfast recipe of stewed fava beans with vegetable oil, cumin, fresh parsley, garlic, onion, lemon juice and chili pepper. Legend has it that this dish may have even been a favorite of the Pharoahs, so it has the royal stamp of approval. On top of that, it’s super easy to prepare. Try this recipe: Ful Medames

Japan: Natto 

Natto is a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. Like most fermented foods, natto has a strong smell and flavor, but also brings many healthy benefits. You can read more about that here. Natto is often enjoyed as a breakfast food on top of rice. If you’re interested in trying it, you can look for prepared versions in Asian specialty food stores or online. Here’s a recipe to try: Natto Recipe

Southern United States: Hoppin’ John 

The combination of rice and beans can be found in many different cuisines. It’s an affordable and filling dish that delivers complete protein, so it’s no surprise. Hoppin’ John is a famous rice and legume dish that comes from the Southern United States and incorporates rice, black-eyed peas, onion and bacon. It’s believed to have West African roots and is commonly served on New Year’s Day to bring good luck for the year. Try Emeril Legasse’s recipe: Hoppin’ John

Italy: Minestrone 

Originating in Italy, minestrone soup is a vegetable soup that commonly includes cannellini beans, onions, celery, carrots, tomatoes, pasta or rice, and either vegetable- or meat-based broth. The recipe can vary because it’s usually made with whatever is in season. Try Martha Stewart’s take alongside a piece of nice Italian bread: Classic Minestrone

China: Sticky Rice Cake with Red Bean Paste

Red bean paste is a common ingredient in Chinese desserts. It’s made from adzuki beans sweetened with sugar or honey and it’s often stuffed inside pastries known as mooncakes. Try this sweet treat: Sticky Rice Cake with Red Bean Paste

Luvo loves beans!

We love beans so much here at Luvo that we use them in many of our good-for-you entrees and burritos. A few you might like to try:

• Go Moroccan with our Chicken & Harissa Chickpeas
• Enjoy the tasty black bean medley in our Mexican (and vegetarian) Quinoa & Vegetable Enchiladas
• Experience Spanish flavors in our bean-packed Chicken Chorizo Chili
• Or try a little fusion with our Organic Apple Coconut Curry Burrito with lentils

This is by no means an exhaustive list of all the wonderful bean dishes to be found around the world. Did we miss your favorite? Share it in the comments or over on Twitter at @luvoinc.