Beans: The Underrated Protein Powerhouses

Who knew that these pint-sized powerhouses could pack such a punch? Let's break down your protein picks, bean by bean:

King of the Bean Kingdom: Edamame has taken the protein crown, with a whopping 9.25g per 1/2 cup serving. These green gems aren't just for your favorite sushi joint anymore.
Adzuki beans: Not just high in protein(8.65g per half-cup), they also zoom past their bean brethren in potassium, iron, and zinc levels. And the best part? You can turn them into dessert. Not kidding, East Asians do it all the time!
White kidney beans (aka cannellini) packing 8.35g of protein. These mild-flavored heavy lifters blend into any dish seamlessly. Pro tip: Blend them into a dip as a sneaky alternative to that hummus you're bored of.
Remember kidney beans from mom's chili? With 7.85g of protein, they are an oldie but a goodie.
Don't let lentils fool you - they might not technically be beans, but they're still rolling with the big boys, offering up 7.75g of protein.
Black beans: the humble and versatile jack of all trades, packing 7.25g of protein.
Mung beans: offering a solid 7.1g of protein and a hefty dose of folate.
Black-eyed peas might evoke thoughts of Southern dish hopping John, but did you know they bring 6.92g of protein to the table too?
The tried and true pinto beans pack in a respectable 6.9g worth of protein.
The fancy fava beans, known for their star role in falafel, offer an appetizing 6.55g of protein per 1/2 cup.
Baked beans might remind you of summer BBQs and campfires. This feel-good side dish beams with 6.05g of protein.
Lima beans and their 5.4g of protein are a classic soup and stew addition with a touch of iron to boot.
And last, but certainly not least, the esteemed chickpeas (or garbanzo beans): Whether you're smashing them for hummus or roasting them for a crunchy snack, they provide a wholesome 5.35g of protein.

So if your stomach's growling for a fresh source of protein, glance no further than your friendly neighborhood bean aisle. Remember, moderation is key to any diet. And for those with gastrointestinal issues, remember to start slow and stay hydrated. Happy bean hunting!