SIMPLi works with producers around the world who use ethical farming practices to bring sustainable high-quality grains, legumes, superfoods, spices, and oils directly to your dining table. By working directly with farming communities, SIMPLi helps to simplify the supply chain in an effort to shift value back to farmers and ensure the integrity of its ingredients.
In continuation of our Sourcing SIMPLi series, which puts a spotlight on the ingredients SIMPLi sources and where they come from, we’re highlighting our NEW Regenerative Organic Certified® Red Kidney Beans.
Kidney beans are a staple in many cuisines around the world, loved for their hearty texture and ability to absorb the diverse flavors they are cooked with. They come from the family of "common beans" that are thought to have originated in the Andean region of Peru more than 8,000 years ago.
While there are a number of options for red kidney beans on supermarket shelves, not all beans are created equal. SIMPLi's regeneratively grown red kidney beans are directly sourced from farming communities in the Andean valleys where they originated in Peru, offering a variety of benefits both for the environment and for the people who consume them. These are more than your average beans—they represent a commitment to sustainable agriculture practices that benefit both the environment and the local communities who have been growing them for thousands of years.
First and foremost, the Regenerative Organic Certification® that our red kidney beans hold guarantees that they are grown in a way that prioritizes the health and well-being of the soil, the environment, and the farmers who cultivate them. Regenerative organic farming focuses on regenerating the soil through practices like minimal tillage, crop rotations, and cover cropping. This approach goes beyond traditional organic farming by prioritizing holistic practices that work to rebuild and regenerate natural systems, rather than simply avoiding harmful pesticides or chemicals. By prioritizing regenerative farming practices, these communities are able to create healthy soil that sequesters carbon and promotes biodiversity in surrounding ecosystems, while also producing high-quality, nutrient-rich beans.
In addition to the environmental benefits of regenerative farming, there are also social benefits to sourcing red kidney beans directly from our farming communities in the Andes. Through our fully vertical supply chains, our farmers receive fair prices for their crops which creates economic stability and independence. In addition, the transparency that our supply chains provide allows consumers to make informed choices about where their food comes from and they can feel good about supporting sustainable, equitable agricultural practices.
Beyond the social and environmental benefits of our Regenerative Organic Certified® Red Kidney Beans, they are also delicious and nutritious! Our kidney beans are rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and are a great source of plant-based protein. When paired with rice, they offer a complete protein source, making them an ideal substitute for meat in vegetarian and vegan diets. Their high fiber content also helps regulate blood sugar levels and promote digestive health.
Kidney beans are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of recipes. From classic dishes like chili and red beans and rice to curries, salads, and veggie burgers, there are endless ways to incorporate kidney beans into your meals. Whether you're a vegetarian, vegan, or just looking to add more plant-based protein to your diet, kidney beans are a great option.
Next time you're looking for a versatile, plant-based addition to your weekly grocery list, try SIMPLi Regenerative Organic Certified® Red Kidney Beans! Not only will you be getting delicious and nutritious beans, but you'll also be supporting a more sustainable and equitable food system. It's a win-win!
Embark on a journey to Ayacucho, Peru in our Sourcing SIMPLi Kidney Beans episode on Instagram.
