Mung Bean Nutrition Facts: Benefits, Uses, and Remedies

Mung beans, scientifically known as Vigna radiata, are a type of legume commonly cultivated in India and other parts of Asia. These small green beans are widely recognized for their nutritional benefits and versatile culinary applications. In this article, we will provide an introduction to mung beans and explore their traditional uses in Indian cuisine.

What are Mung Beans?

Mung beans are small, green, and oval-shaped legumes that are commonly grown in India and other parts of Asia. They are members of the legume family, which includes other popular beans like chickpeas, lentils, and kidney beans. Mung beans have a delicate flavor and are often used in soups, salads, and curries. They are also a popular ingredient in many Asian desserts and sweets.

Nutritional Benefits of Mung Beans

Mung beans are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. They are particularly rich in folate, iron, and magnesium, which are important for maintaining a healthy immune system and preventing chronic diseases. Mung beans are also low in calories and high in antioxidants, making them a great addition to a healthy diet.

Traditional Uses of Mung Beans in Indian Cuisine

Mung beans have been an integral part of Indian cuisine for centuries. They are known by several names in India, including moong dal, green gram, and pesarattu. Mung beans are often used to make dals, which are a type of Indian lentil soup. They are also used in many vegetarian dishes, including samosas, chaats, and vadas.

Moong Dal

Moong dal is a popular Indian dish made with split mung beans. The beans are boiled until they are soft and then mixed with onions, tomatoes, and spices. This dish is often served with rice or roti and is a staple in many Indian households.

Pesarattu

Pesarattu is a type of dosa, or Indian pancake, made with mung bean flour. The flour is mixed with water and spices to make a thin batter, which is then spread on a hot griddle. This dish is often served with coconut chutney and is a popular breakfast item in South India.

Sprouted Mung Beans

Sprouted mung beans are another popular way to enjoy these nutritious legumes. To sprout mung beans, simply soak them in water for several hours and then rinse them several times a day until they start to sprout. Sprouted mung beans can be eaten raw or cooked and are often used in salads and sandwiches.

Mung khichadi

Mung khichadi is a popular Indian dish made with mung beans, rice, and spices. Here’s a recipe to make mung khichadi at home:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mung beans (split or whole)
• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 tbsp ghee or oil
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste
• 4 cups water
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the mung beans and rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Soak them together in enough water to cover them for 30 minutes.
2. In a pressure cooker or large pot, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat.
3. Add the cumin and mustard seeds and let them splutter for a few seconds.
4. Add the ginger paste, minced garlic, and all the spices. Stir for a few seconds.
5. Drain the water from the soaked mung beans and rice and add them to the pot. Stir for a few minutes.
6. Add 4 cups of water and salt to taste. Stir well.
7. If using a pressure cooker, close the lid and cook for 2-3 whistles. If using a pot, cover with a lid and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the mung beans and rice are fully cooked.
8. Once cooked, let the pressure release naturally (if using a pressure cooker) or fluff the rice and beans with a fork (if using a pot).
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro (if desired) and serve hot with yogurt or pickles.

Mung khichadi is a nutritious and filling dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s also easy to customize by adding vegetables, spices, or herbs to suit your taste preferences.

Nutritional Profile of Mung Beans

Mung beans are a low-calorie, nutrient-dense food. A 100-gram serving of cooked mung beans contains:

• Calories: 105
• Protein: 7 grams
• Carbohydrates: 19 grams
• Fiber: 7 grams
• Fat: 0.4 grams
• Iron: 1.4 milligrams
• Magnesium: 48 milligrams
• Phosphorus: 99 milligrams
• Potassium: 266 milligrams
• Vitamin C: 4 milligrams
• Folate: 162 micrograms

Mung beans are also rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and tannins.

Health Benefits of Mung Beans

1. Promote Heart Health

Mung beans contain antioxidants and fiber that help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. They also contain potassium, which helps regulate heart function.

2. Aid Digestion

Mung beans are rich in fiber, which helps promote regular bowel movements and prevents constipation. They also contain enzymes that aid in digestion and reduce inflammation in the gut.

3. Manage Blood Sugar

Mung beans have a low glycemic index, which means they do not cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. This makes them a great food for people with diabetes or those looking to manage their blood sugar levels.

4. Boost Immune System

Mung beans contain vitamin C, which is essential for immune function. They also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help protect the body against infections and diseases.

5. Support Weight Loss

Mung beans are low in calories and high in fiber, which helps promote satiety and prevent overeating. They also contain resistant starch, which is a type of carbohydrate that resists digestion and promotes fat burning.

Uses of Mung Beans

Mung beans can be used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, curries, and salads. They can also be sprouted and used in sandwiches, wraps, and stir-fries. Mung bean flour can be used as a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour in baking.

Mung beans home remedies

Sure, here are some home remedies using mung beans:

1. Mung Bean Face Mask:

• Mung beans can be ground into a powder and mixed with water to create a face mask that can help to improve skin complexion and reduce acne. Simply apply the mixture to your face and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.

2. Mung Bean Soup:

• Mung bean soup is a popular home remedy in Chinese medicine for detoxifying the body and improving digestion. To make the soup, soak mung beans overnight, then boil them with water, ginger, and other herbs and spices for several hours until they become soft.

3. Mung Bean Hair Mask:

• Mung beans can also be used to create a hair mask that can help to promote hair growth and improve hair texture. Simply grind the mung beans into a powder, mix with water or coconut oil, and apply to the hair for 30-60 minutes before rinsing off.

4. Mung Bean Eye Mask:

• Mung beans can also be used to create an eye mask that can help to reduce dark circles and puffiness around the eyes. Simply grind the mung beans into a powder, mix with water, and apply to the eye area for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off.

5. Mung Bean Bath:

• Mung beans can be used in a bath to help soothe and nourish the skin. Simply grind the mung beans into a powder and mix with Epsom salt and essential oils before adding to the bathwater. Soak in the bath for 20-30 minutes to enjoy its benefits.

Risks of Mung Beans

Although mung beans are generally safe to consume, some people may experience gas, bloating, or digestive discomfort after eating them. This is due to their high fiber content and oligosaccharides, which are types of carbohydrates that can be difficult to digest. To reduce the risk of digestive discomfort, it is recommended to soak and rinse mung beans before cooking them.

Conclusion

Mung beans are a nutritious and versatile food that offer numerous health benefits. They are a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They can be used in a variety of dishes and are a great addition to any healthy diet. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with consuming mung beans, particularly for those with digestive issues.

FAQs

Sure, here are some FAQs about mung beans:

1. Can mung beans help with weight loss?

• Yes, mung beans are low in calories and high in fiber, which can promote satiety and prevent overeating.

2. Are mung beans a good source of protein?

• Yes, mung beans are a great source of plant-based protein.

3. Can mung beans cause digestive discomfort?

• Yes, some people may experience gas, bloating, or digestive discomfort after eating mung beans due to their high fiber content and oligosaccharides. To reduce the risk of digestive discomfort, it is recommended to soak and rinse mung beans before cooking them.

4. How can I incorporate mung beans into my diet?

• Mung beans can be used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, curries, and salads. They can also be sprouted and used in sandwiches, wraps, and stir-fries.

5. Are there any risks associated with consuming mung beans?

• While mung beans are generally safe to consume, it is important to be aware of the potential risks, particularly for those with digestive issues. Additionally, consuming large amounts of raw or undercooked mung beans can lead to food poisoning due to the presence of lectins.