Beans are rich in nutrients, easy to cultivate and transport, and are beloved in cuisines around the world. But on many plates, beans are a side dish, not the main attraction. That may be hard to believe if you’re someone who craves a simmering pot of frijoles negros or lives for the sweet and savory taste of Boston baked beans. We talk to Steve Sando, the founder of Rancho Gordo, a Napa company that revitalized the heirloom bean market, and Jessica Battlana, a chef, about how beans can and should be the center of any meal. What’s your favorite bean?
All Hail the Humble and Glorious Bean

(Photos courtesy of Rancho Gordo)
Guests:
Steve Sando, founder and CEO, Rancho Gordo; a company that sells heirloom varieties of beans; author, "The Bean Book: 100 Recipes for Cooking with All Kinds of Beans"
Jessica Battilana, co-author, "Rintaro: Japanese Food from an Izakaya in California"; Battilana is also the author of "Repertoire: All The Recipes You Need" and a staff editor at King Arthur Baking
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