nitrogen-fixing plants of family Fabaceae: beans, lentils, peas, chickpeas, soybeans
symbiotic root nodules harbor Rhizobium bacteria converting atmospheric N2 to ammonia
primary plant protein source for human nutrition
enriches soil nitrogen, essential rotation partner for grain and other crops
seed pods split along two seams when mature
processed via cooking, sprouting, fermentation (food) (tempeh, miso, soy sauce)
low water demand relative to animal protein, efficient use of energy
central to food sovereignty and clean food systems