Yardlong Bean

Yardlong beans may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age.

The yardlong bean, also called the asparagus bean, bodi, Chinese long bean, or snake bean, originated in Africa, where it still grows wild. Migration and trade brought yardlong bean eastward to Asia, where the legume is a common ingredient in salads, stir-fries, stews, and more. Yardlong beans resemble very long green beans; they can grow up to 3 ft (1 m) in length. While they are both legumes, yardlong bean is more closely related to black-eyed peas—another native legume of Africa.

Yes, yardlong beans are rich in folate and vitamin C, and also contain some fiber, vitamin A, and plant-based omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients work together to support baby’s neurodevelopment, immunity, iron absorption, digestive health, vision, and much more.

★Tip: When cooking yardlong beans, try stir-frying instead of boiling in water. Yardlong beans can easily become soggy because they quickly absorb the fluid in which they’re cooked. Stir-frying helps maintain some of the crunch.

Yes, yardlong beans are tough for babies to chew, and small sections of bean could be swallowed rather than chewed, posing a higher risk of choking. To minimize the risk, cut lengthwise or offer a long portion of a whole, cooked bean to munch on. As always, make sure you create a safe eating environment and stay within an arm’s reach of baby during meals. For more information on choking, visit our section on gagging and choking and familiarize yourself with the list of common choking hazards.

No, yardlong beans are not a common food allergen. They are, however, a variety of cowpea and although uncommon, allergies to cowpeas have been reported.

Bean and pea allergies have also been reported in some patients with allergies to other legumes. However, being allergic to one type of legume does not necessarily mean that an individual will be allergic to all others, although the risk of having more than one legume allergy can increase. Fortunately, most individuals with peanut or soy allergies (both common food allergens) are able to tolerate other legumes, such as yardlong beans, just fine.

Individuals with allergies to birch tree pollen and/or Oral Allergy Syndrome (also called pollen food allergy syndrome) may be sensitive to legumes. Oral Allergy Syndrome typically results in short-lived itching, tingling, or burning in the mouth and is unlikely to result in a dangerous reaction. Cooking yardlong beans can help minimize and even eliminate the reaction.

As you would when introducing any new food, start by offering a small quantity for the first few servings. If there is no adverse reaction, gradually increase the quantity over future meals.

Yes, yardlong beans contain fiber and water to help support gut bacteria, bulk up poop, and hydrate the intestines for healthy digestion and bowel movements.High-fiber foods can also produce gas and while this is normal, it can be uncomfortable for baby. To minimize digestive discomfort, introduce high-fiber foods like yardlong beans gradually and regularly in baby’s diet as tolerated. Remember that pooping patterns can vary significantly from baby to baby. If you have concerns about your baby’s pooping and digestive function, talk to your pediatric healthcare provider.