Dry Rio Zape Heirloom Beans

First cultivated centuries ago, Rio Zape beans (also known as Hopi String beans) carry a history as rich as their flavor. In 1935, they were discovered in the ancient cliff dwellings of the Zuni Pueblo in New Mexico, and later, in the 1960s, archaeologists unearthed them from a sealed tomb in Rio Zape, Durango, Mexico—where they had been resting since around 600 AD! With their striking appearance and mysterious past, Rio Zape beans are truly a living link to history.

Rio Zape are in the pinto bean family, with richer and more complex flavor that some describe as chocolatey. They also possess earthy undertones and a deep, flavorful cooking liquid, making them a versatile ingredient for hearty dishes like soups, stews, and refried beans. Simply throw the beans in a pot with an onion and a bay leaf, bring to a boil, and then simmer for 1-3 hours. Eat the beans as is, add them to a soup, or puree them with additional onion and garlic for a tasty bean dip!