“First it was canned fish and Spam, and now beans and pulses are the latest cupboard staple to get a foodie renaissance. Once dismissed as a bland and boring basic, they’re now centre stage on every fashionable restaurant menu and are increasingly part of every savvy cook’s kitchen arsenal. In the past year, people have also cottoned on to their economy, versatility and great nutritional value (they’re low in fat and high in protein). Plus, they can ‘stretch’ a hearty stew or simply stand on their own in a salad or stir fry. Butter beans are the nation’s favourite, with chickpeas a close second.” – Lizzie Haywood, Innovation Trend Manager at Waitrose
“One of the most sustainable and affordable protein sources on the planet, beans are ticking all the boxes for 2024 – especially when restaurants make them feel indulgent. At Nessa, Tom Cenci’s campfire beans on toast are smoky and saucy, while cannellini and haricot litter the menus at the likes of Bouchon Racine and Cafe Cecilia.” – Frances Cottrell-Duffield, Tonic Communications
