Phaseolus Vulgaris

a.k.a. Mexican Red Bean, Small Red Beans

These dark red beans have a flavor and texture similar to kidney beans. Originating in North America, red beans are still popular in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine. They add great color to dishes such as tortilla soup and can replace kidney beans in chili. Red beans are the start in Louisiana red beans and rice. Added to tortilla chips, red bean flakes make a colorful chip with a crisp texture and more robust flavor.