Robin Hood

[80 days] Awarded an Award of Garden Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society, Robin Hood Broad Beans are a fine new English variety of fava bean that produces especially succulent beans high in protein, fiber and vitamins A and C. These bushy plants produce early and are super compact (growing only 12-18 inches tall), so they won’t need staking. They also have delicious, white flowers that can be eaten straight or used as a garnish for salads or other dishes. The pods form low on the stalks, each of which contains 4 to 6 tender, flat green beans favored for their nutty flavor. As long as the weather is cool, these plants produce prolifically. Once the weather warms up, however, production will slow until the next cool period. (All the more reason to get them planted early in the season.)

Our favorite ways to eat broad beans (whether in pods or out) are to cook them lightly and eat them cold with vinaigrette, or sauté them in oil or butter. Also good in a pâté or lightly salted and tossed with olive oil. Dry favas are great in soups, stews and casseroles. As a bonus, they also freeze well.

Days to germination: 10-14 days.

Days to harvest: 80-85