Mung beans (Vigna radiata) are small green beans that belong to the wider Fabaceae (pea) family of plants. Although mung beans are grown around the world, the majority of production comes from Asia, with India, China, Myanmar and Indonesia accounting for about 70% of global production.1​.

Description of mung beans

Mung beans are known for their mild, nutty flavor and soft texture when cooked. They are valued in many Asian countries, where they are used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes, especially in India, China, Korea and Thailand.2​.

Their Nutritional Value and Popularity in the Diet

Mung beans are an excellent source of protein, fiber, potassium, copper and B vitamins. One cup of cooked mung beans provides about 212 calories, 0.8 grams of fat, 38.8 grams of carbohydrates and 14.2 grams of protein.3​.

Choice of Land and Location

Mung beans thrive best in fertile, sandy, loamy soil with excellent drainage, and a pH between 6.2 and 7.2. It is important to choose a location where the soil can be prepared and amended as needed4​​5​.

Preparation of the Earth

Before sowing, the soil should be loosened with a garden hoe or tiller, and all weeds or debris should be removed from the area. To improve soil fertility, compost or old manure should be incorporated into the soil6​.

Sowing mung beans

It is recommended to soak mung bean seeds in water for 4-6 hours before planting. The seeds should be planted when the soil temperature has reached 18°C ​​and they should be placed one inch deep in the soil and spaced two inches apart.7​.

Care of mung beans

Watering should be done regularly, but without overwatering, as mung beans are sensitive to root rot. To minimize the risk of diseases such as halo blight and tan spot, it is important to have good farm hygiene and weed control​8​​9​.

Pest and Disease Control

Mung beans are susceptible to pests such as aphids and diseases that can significantly impact their growth and yield. Pest control can be achieved by using a mixture of washing-up liquid and water10​​11​.

Harvest and Finishing

Mung beans are ready for harvest about 7-10 days after germination. After harvesting, the beans must be dried and stored properly to preserve their nutritional value and prevent mold growth.

Sustainable Cultivation of Mung Beans

Organic cultivation methods and good farm management can help reduce the environmental impact of mung bean cultivation.

Importance of Mung Beans in Different Cultures

Historically, mung beans have played a significant role in Asian cuisines, where they are used in everything from soups to desserts.

Growing mung beans is a simple and rewarding process that not only provides nutritious beans, but also the opportunity to grow a historically and culturally significant crop. With the right preparation and care, mung beans can be an excellent addition to any garden or field.

Do you have questions? We have answers!

Mung beans should be rinsed and boiled in water or vegetable broth for 30-40 minutes. Because they have a shorter cooking time than other beans, they do not always need to be pre-washed, and you can add them raw to the stew.

Mung beans are an excellent source of energy and contain abundant amounts of dietary fiber and protein. The dietary fiber helps to satiate your body and maintain healthy digestion. The proteins act as building blocks for your muscles and tissues and also contribute to saturate your body.

The small, green mung beans taste good mild and slightly nutty, the taste is on the neutral side, but forms a good background for the flavors with which the beans are served. Available all year round. This is really a raw material that is good to have in your basic stock.

The mung bean has its origins in South China, India, Sri Lanka, Indochina, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and Australia.