Fresh

In the life cycle of a bean, a fresh bean is when the bean inside the pod is fully formed, but not dried. Before this stage, the bean is more like a traditional green bean. After it, the pod and the bean dry completely and are no longer perishable—ready to be stored for eating later or planted to start the cycle again. Fresh beans are both more vegetal and creamier than traditional dried beans. Plus, because they are not dried, they cook up lightning quick. Fresh soy, lima, and fava beans are no different except that they are more widely available in grocery store freezers.