Moth bean, also known as matki or dew bean, is a legume commonly found in India, Pakistan, and Nepal. The spelling of "moth bean" is derived from the Hindi word "matki," which is pronounced /məʊθ biːn/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "mo" is pronounced like "mow," while the second syllable "th" is pronounced like "thick." Together, they form a unique sound that is pronounced as "moth." The spelling of "bean" is straightforward, pronounced as /biːn/.
Moth bean, also known as matki or dew beans, is a legume plant that belongs to the Vigna family. Its scientific name is Vigna aconitifolia. It is primarily cultivated in arid regions of South Asia and is widely consumed in Indian cuisine.
The moth bean plant is a small, erect, and bushy plant that can reach a height of 20-30 cm. It has trifoliate leaves, small white flowers, and produces small, cylindrical pods that contain the seeds. The seeds are small, oval-shaped, and usually brown or dark brown in color.
The seeds of the moth bean are recognized for their high nutritional value and are commonly used as a pulse. They are rich in protein, dietary fiber, vitamins (such as vitamin C, thiamin, and riboflavin), and minerals (including iron, potassium, and magnesium). Due to its high protein content, moth bean is often used as a protein substitute for individuals following vegetarian or vegan diets.
In Indian cuisine, moth beans are a popular ingredient in a variety of dishes, including curries, soups, and salads. They are often soaked overnight and then cooked until soft. Moth bean curry is a common dish prepared with spices, tomatoes, onions, and other vegetables. The beans have a mild earthy flavor that absorbs the flavors of the spices and other ingredients used in the dish.
Overall, moth bean is a versatile legume plant that provides an important source of nutrition, particularly in regions with arid climates, and is valued for its culinary applications in Indian cuisine.
The word "moth bean" is a combination of the names of two related plants: "moth" refers to Vigna aconitifolia, and "bean" refers to Vigna umbellata. Both plants are members of the Vigna genus and are part of the family Fabaceae (legume family).
The origin of the term "moth" is not entirely clear. It is believed to have originated from the Marathi word "matki", which means a bulbous vessel or pot. The seed of the Vigna aconitifolia plant resembles a small, round pot, hence the name. Over time, "matki" transformed into "moth" in English.
On the other hand, the term "bean" comes from the Old English word "bēan", which stems from the Germanic root "bauno".