Sand beans - the forgotten crop

Sand beans (Vigna unguiculata), also known as cowpea or poor man's pea, once played an important role in Hungarian farming, especially in the sandy soils of the Danube-Tisza area. Although it is rarely seen in public cultivation today, in the past it was often sown in areas where edible beans (Phaseolus species) were less productive or not viable at all. The 1966 Growing crops on sand sand beans were widespread in Hungary before the Phaseolus beans became widespread.

Benefits and cultivation of sand beans

A sand beans highly drought tolerant, which makes it a re-applicable crop in our changing climate. Its deep root system allows it to make good use of the moisture in the soil, so it can survives periods of low rainfall.

Due to its short growing season, it is easy to incorporate into crop rotation and can also be used as a second crop. Improves soil fertility thanks to its nitrogen fixing capacity, so it can also be a useful crop for sustainable farming.

It can also be used green as animal feed as it is high in protein and easily digestible. Re-hair after pruning, so you can even include a mowing or grazing, which adds to its economic value.

How has bean cultivation changed in Hungary?

From the second half of the 20th century with the spread of intensive farming, sand beans have gradually been phased out of domestic production. It has been replaced by higher-yielding and more marketable varieties such as field beans and dry beans (Phaseolus vulgaris). The mechanisation of modern agriculture and the availability of irrigation have also contributed to farmers' less preference for drought-tolerant varieties with lower yields.

At present, the production of dry beans in Hungary is almost zero, with domestic demand almost entirely covered by imports. This situation further strengthens the possibility that the re-cultivation of sand beans could contribute to improved self-sufficiency and sustainable agricultural practices.

Phaseolus species did not originally evolve in warm, dry climates, so with current global warming and increasing heat stress, they are less and less able to produce crops because their flowers do not bloom properly, often becoming infertile. In contrast, sand beans (Vigna unguiculata) is particularly well adapted to warm environments and reliably yields at high temperatures, making it a sustainable alternative in changing climatic conditions.

Nowadays, climate change and increasingly frequent dry spells can bring plants that thrive with little water back to the fore. With the rise of regenerative agriculture, traditionally hardy crops such as the sand bean may once again become valuable. It can be particularly beneficial for sustainable farming because reduces the need for fertilisation and improves soil structure.

Uses and nutritional benefits

A sand beans is a valuable plant not only from an agricultural point of view, but also from a nutritional point of view. Its high protein content makes it an excellent meat substitute in plant-based diets. It is also rich in fibre, B vitamins, iron and calcium, so it can contribute to a healthy diet. It is therefore not surprising that it is consumed as a staple food in many countries around the world.

The flavour is slightly earthy, which goes well with spicy and aromatic dishes. Both the seeds and pods of sand beans are eaten, and can be used in many ways: cooked in soups, stews, salads or as a side dish, or pureed as a base for creams and sauces. Its sprouts are an excellent addition to any salad. If you give it a try, you can choose from a wide range of sand bean recipes that offer a variety of tasty preparation options.

Could there be a future for sand beans in Hungary?

Although currently little known and cultivated in our country, there is a potential for a return of sand beans due to changing environmental conditions and increasing demand for alternative protein sources. There is growing interest from experimental growers and small farms, and if there is sufficient market support, it could be re-introduced into our increasingly arid regions.

For farmers interested in sustainable farming and climate adaptation, it may be worth rediscovering this ancient crop that was once an important part of Hungarian rural life.