Tag: Guar

Despite their similar appearance, cluster beans and green beans are not the same; they belong to entirely different botanical families. This common point of confusion arises because both are green legumes often used in cooking, but they diverge significantly in origin, flavor, and texture. Understanding these distinctions is key to appreciating each bean's unique culinary role.

The guar, scientifically known as *Cyamopsis tetragonoloba*, is the annual legume also known as cluster beans. This drought-tolerant, protein-rich plant is a staple in various cuisines, particularly in India, and is a surprising source of the industrially significant guar gum.

Based on nutritional data, a 100-gram serving of fresh cluster beans contains approximately 260 mg of potassium. This raises the question of whether this amount qualifies them as a high-potassium food and what it means for your overall health.