Marrow bean is a term used to describe a large, flat bean that is commonly used in traditional American cuisine. The spelling of the word is straightforward, with the exception of the pronunciation. The word "marrow" is pronounced as /ˈmærəʊ/ (MA-roh), whereas "bean" is pronounced as /biːn/ (been). The spelling of the word "marrow bean" reflects the phonetic sounds of the two words, with the emphasis clearly placed on the first syllable of "marrow" and the second syllable of "bean."
A marrow bean, also known as a soup bean or a white kidney bean, refers to a type of edible legume that belongs to the Phaseolus vulgaris species. It is a kidney-shaped, medium-sized bean with a creamy white color and a smooth texture. Marrow beans are most commonly used in culinary applications due to their mild flavor and ability to absorb various flavors and seasonings.
Typically harvested when mature, marrow beans possess a dense and creamy consistency when cooked. They are commonly used in soups, stews, and traditional dishes from various cuisines worldwide. The beans have a versatile nature, making them an ideal addition to a plethora of recipes. Furthermore, they are a common substitute for navy beans or cannellini beans due to their similar appearance and texture.
Nutritionally, marrow beans are renowned for their high content of protein, dietary fiber, and essential minerals such as iron, magnesium, and potassium. Moreover, they are a great source of vitamins, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and several of the B vitamins.
Cultivation of marrow beans is widespread, with various cultivars and varieties found globally. They are typically planted during winter and spring seasons, with favorable growth conditions including well-drained soil, ample sunlight, and regular watering. The beans take approximately 80 to 100 days to reach maturity, at which point they are harvested and can be dried or used fresh. Overall, marrow beans are a nutritious and versatile legume that adds both flavor and substance to a wide array of dishes.
The word "marrow" in "marrow bean" does not have a separate etymology. The term "marrow bean" is simply a combination of two English words referring to a specific type of bean. "Marrow" comes from the Old English word "mearg", which means "bone marrow". In this context, it is used to describe the large, meaty texture of the bean. "Bean" comes from the Old English word "bēan", which ultimately originated from the Proto-Germanic word "baunō". The combination of these two terms together, "marrow bean", simply describes the characteristics of this particular bean variety.