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Characterized by a strong flavor and a color that is reddish brown in nature, the kidney bean is a versatile kidney shaped bean that can be used in a variety of hot and cold recipes. Kidney beans grown in many different locations, and is usually sold in dry or canned varieties. While a true kidney bean is dark red/brown in color, a light red bean, phaseolus vulgaris, is often referred to as a light red kidney bean, owing to the similar shape and texture.
Kidney beans are often an excellent dietary selection, as they contain no cholesterol. As a source of potassium, kidney beans provide a source of nutrition that is similar to that of a potato, but with only a moderate amount of carbohydrates. Kidney beans also contain trace amounts of iron and calcium.
