Legumbres Raul Asturian Fabada Beans

Overview

Legumbres Raúl Asturian Fabada Beans, often known as Fabes de la Granja, reign as the premium beans cornerstone for the iconic Spanish dish, Fabada Asturiana. Cultivated in the lush and fertile lands of Asturias, Spain, these beans carry with them centuries of culinary tradition and artisanal excellence. Grown by the family-owned business Legumbres Raúl, established in the late 1990s, these beans are celebrated globally for their superior quality and unique cultivation methods.

Botanical Characteristics

• Variety: Fabes de la Granja
• Size & Shape: Large, kidney-shaped, broad, flattened
• Color: White
• Texture & Flavor: Exceptionally buttery and creamy when cooked, with a mild yet slightly nutty flavor. These beans have an extraordinary ability to soak up the flavors of ingredients they are cooked with, such as spices and meats.

Cultivation and Authenticity

Exclusively grown in the lush valleys of Asturias, the cultivation of these beans is a labor-intense process involving hand-planting and hand-harvesting. This meticulous approach ensures only the finest beans are selected. Asturian Fabada Beans benefit from well-drained soils and consistent rainfall, requiring over 150 days to mature fully, in contrast to the typical 90 days for most beans. Many batches receive the “Denominación Específica Faba Asturiana” certification, verifying their authenticity and superior quality.

Culinary Uses

These beans are the star ingredient in Fabada Asturiana, a hearty, rich stew that symbolizes Asturian culinary heritage. Traditionally, this dish comprises fabada beans, blood sausage (morcilla), chorizo, and pork cuts, all simmered together to create a sumptuous and warming meal. Thanks to their absorptive texture, the beans meld perfectly with the smoky and savory elements of the dish, turning each spoonful into a taste of Asturias.

Besides their traditional use, the beans can enhance a variety of dishes, from soups and salads to stews, by contributing a creamy texture and absorbing flavors beautifully.

Health and Nutritional Profile

Asturian Fabada Beans are a nutritional powerhouse. A serving is rich in fiber (7g), protein (6g), and provides essential minerals like calcium (50mg) and iron (2mg) with minimal fat content. This makes them not only a satisfying ingredient but also a healthy one, suitable for various dietary preferences including vegetarian and vegan diets.

Beyond Taste: Cultural Significance

Fabada beans are more than just food; they are an emblem of Asturian culture and culinary pride. Part of many regional celebrations and family dinners, they signify the commonplace harmony between tradition, agriculture, and community in Asturias, and have earned international respect among gastronomes.

Quality and Selection

Legumbres Raúl’s commitment to quality is evident in their process of selecting only whole, unblemished beans, reflecting their dedication to excellence from farm to table. Their artisanal practices not only support sustainability but also preserve the rich agricultural traditions of their origin, making each bean a testament to Spanish heritage.

Environmental and Ethical Farming

Grown using low input agriculture methods, these beans prioritize environmental health and biodiversity, supporting traditional farming practices without heavy pesticide use. This approach not only benefits the local ecosystem but also provides reliable employment within rural Asturian communities.