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What Is a Lupine Bean?

The lupine bean is the most widely eaten type of Lupini bean. According to Purdue University, the white lupine bean was used to enrich crop soil more than 2,000 years ago by the ancient Egyptians. They can be served as appetizers and also used in soups, sauces and other dishes.
  1. Nutritional Value

    • If boiled, this bean is very nutritious, containing magnesium, zinc, potassium, calcium, iron, phosphorus and copper.

    Climate

    • This cool-season crop is very tolerant to springtime frosts. Exposure to high temperatures can cause a yield reduction.

    Soil

    • Lupine beans grow best in well-drained, coarse and acidic soil. Many times, the plant will not grow if the soil is too wet or has a high pH level.

    Pests

    • According to Purdue University, corn seed maggots infest many lupine stands. In Minnesota and Wisconsin, potato leaf hoppers and Lygus bugs have been observed.

    Preparation

    • Soak the beans in water overnight, then drain them. Boil the beans in fresh water for one hour and drain. Replace the water with fresh water. Boil the beans for another hour. Repeat this process until the bitter taste disappears.