CALYPSO BEANS, BLACK (B39)

The Calypso Bean, or "Phaseolus vulgaris," is a dramatic and beautiful bean. Its starkly contrasting black-and-white pattern gives it the nickname "yin-yang bean," and its resemblance to a Holstein cow's hide gives rise to its other nickname, "cow seed." Although their markings fade when cooked, the contrast of their pattern remains, giving them great presentation value. Black Calypso Beans are a member of the larger family of legumes, a genre of plant species used for their edible seeds and pods, which boast a high nutrient density with low-maintenance production and storage. They contain high levels of protein, essential minerals and fiber, while maintaining a low level of fats. Believed to have originated in Peru, beans spread through trade throughout South and Central America, later being introduced to Europe in the 15th century by Spanish explorers.