Broad Beans

Broad beans have been cultivated since the Bronze Age and are still a popular crop among gardeners. Growing them yourself means you can enjoy the tiny, tender first beans of the season – good eaten raw, with cheese or cured meat. When choosing broad beans, avoid any wrinkled, yellowing pods or the beans will be tough and coarse. Store in a plastic bag in the fridge and shell just before cooking. Frozen beans make a good substitute for fresh. Whether using fresh or frozen, it is worth taking the trouble to peel off the pale grey inner skin after cooking to reveal the brilliant-green little bean inside.