Guide Note

The Mung bean, native to India, can be eaten whole, with skin or without, or as a bean sprout. They are available year-round.

Fast Facts

1. Scientific name: Vigna radiata
2. Alternate names: moong, green soy, monggo, mash bean, green gran, golden gram
3. One of the most consumed sprouts
4. Starch from this bean is used to make a variety of different noodles
5. Good source of protein, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, fiber and potassium

Mung beans are a staple of Asian Cuisines. In Vietnam, mung bean flour is used to make the transparent wrapping that is used for spring rolls. In India, they are used in dal, ground and made into pancakes, or deep-fried and consumed as a snack. In China, they are eaten whole or used in a dessert called Green bean soup.

Mung bean sprouts, sold as "bean sprouts" are a common ingredient in most Asian countries and are available in major supermarkets throughout the United States.