I know beans are the magical fruit, but if you can ease your body into eating beans more often, you can avoid the gassy side effects and reap the amazing health benefits. Compared to meat, beans are inexpensive, low in calories and fat, and high in fiber. They're also fairly high in protein as well. The best part about beans is that there are so many varieties to choose from, so if you've never tried adzuki beans, now's the time.

These adorable beans are deep red in color with a distinctive white ridge on one side. Adzukis are little beans, smaller in size than black beans, and the flavor of them is very unique — slightly nutty and sweet. If you're short on time, buy canned adzuki beans. Not many companies sell adzukis, and the brand I buy is Eden, which is organic, so they cost a little less than $2 a can. To save money, buy dry adzuki beans in bulk, and soak and cook them yourself.

To see how adzuki beans compare nutritionally to other beans read more.

As you can see from the chart below, adzukis and other beans share similar stats. So you can substitute these red beans for other beans in your favorite recipes. I especially love to mix them with seasoned quinoa. If you too love to eat adzuki beans, share your recipe ideas below.

Flickr User skyfaller