Edible Beans: Simple Yet Sophisticated
Dylan Karley has been involved in crop rotation for over 25 years, and he shared some valuable insights on the planning process. Many farmers begin the planning process in January, making decisions on which crops to grow years in advance. What's interesting is that edible beans can be incorporated into the same rotation as soybeans or corn, showcasing their versatility in farming practices.
Market Considerations and International Connections
Selecting the right seed varieties and classes of beans is a critical aspect of the planning process. Dylan highlighted the importance of market conditions in making these decisions. To stay informed, he relies on organizations like the US Dry Bean Council, which provides monthly reports on global trends. Moreover, he actively travels, attends food shows, and even visits grocery stores to identify potential opportunities.
Types of Beans and Diverse Uses
There is a wide variety of edible beans available, each with its unique taste and texture preferences. From pinto beans to black beans and kidney beans, the options are vast. But the exciting part is experimenting with different beans in various dishes and discovering personal preferences.
Trends and Innovations
Dylan Karley's connection to the culinary world offered remarkable insights into the evolving trends surrounding edible beans. It was fascinating to learn that this humble plant has made its way into fast-casual restaurants like Qdoba and Chipotle. They are also being embraced in school food menus as a carb alternative. The potential for beans as a snack and gluten-free ingredient was also highlighted, with innovative individuals developing unique products using bean flour.
Global Markets and North Dakota's Advantage
As our conversation with Dylan progressed, we explored the international market for edible beans. Countries like Mexico, China, and Central/South American nations both produce and consume beans, making them potential importers. Dylan also enlightened us on North Dakota farmers' advantage, whose beans are specially bred to retain their color in warmer and more humid climates, without any genetic modification.
Our chat with Dylan Karley provided a glimpse into the world of edible beans, shedding light on crop rotation, market dynamics, culinary trends, and international connections. Edible beans have come a long way, gaining popularity worldwide and being embraced in various culinary creations.
Spilling the Beans About Edible Beans
Hear Dylan Karley share his expertise.