Pulse and Bean
It is a usual assumption that all beans are classified as the same. To most people a dried kidney bean is the same as a canned green bean however, nothing is farther from the truth. Pulses are defined by the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nation as annual leguminous crops yielding from one to twelve seeds of different size, shape and color within a single pod. Pulses are used for food and animal feed. However, the term is reserved for crops harvested solely for dry grain. Therefore, green beans and green peas are considered vegetable crops. Also excluded from the pulse definition are soybeans and peanuts.
Pulses are important foods because they contain high amounts of protein and essential amino acids. They also play an important part in crop rotation. By alternating yearly crops of vegetation and then pulses; the farmer enables the soil to maintain a healthy chemical balance.
A chili recipe contains pulse in the form of kidney or pinto beans. Chili is a flavorful dish that is an American Southwest favorite. To make chili you need these ingredients:
1 onion
6 cloves garlic -- peeled
2 pounds ground beef
1 can diced green chilies (4 oz)
1 can diced tomatoes (12 oz)
1 can tomato paste (6 oz)
6 tablespoons chili powder (or more)
3 teaspoons ground cumin
1 tablespoon vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 pound pinto or kidney beans -- cooked and drained
salt
pepper
grated sharp cheddar cheese -- (garnish)
Sauté onions and garlic together. Add ground beef, green chilies, tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, vinegar, brown sugar and beans. Simmer for two hours. Garnish with grated cheese.
