runner beans

[jokey]

can anyone tell me when i should be picking my runner beans, at the moments they are around 9 inches long but not very plumped out.  we tasted a raw one and it tasted unripe. Any help appreciated.

[jokey]

[daxzen]

now -

you said runner beans - they are best before the beans form - they get stringy when they are older

definitely young and tender in my book!

see below!

http://vegbox-recipes.co.uk/ingredients/runner-beans.php


dax

[jokey]

thanks dax

think i've just caught them in time, just cooked some and they were lovely  ;D
think i'll be picking them everyday now and they are everywhere

[Tulipa]

They are beautiful when they are young, so different from what you get in the shops,  magical, enjoy...

T.

[Digeroo]

I have never understood why the ones in the shops are picked about a week too late. If the bean has filled out I think its too late.

I like them with a bit of butter or a dusting of parmesan cheese. Eating a whole large plate full right now.

[tim]

If too blousy, pod & enjoy like Broadies.

[Borlotti]

Pick them young and tender, then you don't have to cut the sides off, just top and tail and slice them, and eat, enjoy.  The more you pick the more you get.  When they get too old just chuck them on the compost heap, or else save a few, leave until they go brown and dry and save the beans for next year.

[PurpleHeather]

I was just about to answer when I noticed that every one else has got the perfect answer.

I seem to be constantly explaining to people who think that the beans should  be left until they are two foot long.

Can I just add. If you have had loads and there are still tons ready to pick, don't leave them/ Better to give them away and wait for the next lot.

[Eristic]

I have never understood why the ones in the shops are picked about a week too late. If the bean has filled out I think its too late.

They are twice as heavy and therefore twice the price.

[thifasmom]

The more you pick the more you get.  When they get too old just chuck them on the compost heap, or else save a few, leave until they go brown and dry and save the beans for next year.

don't chuck just depod the beans and use in stews last year i tried this and they were delicious, a really buttery taste and smooth texture.

[tim]

Read my lips??

[1066]

If too blousy, pod & enjoy like Broadies.

I like the use of the word blousy here Tim !

[jokey]

thanks for all your replies, having more for lunch with a piece of salmon  Mmmmm  its my first year and i suppose i was thinking they would be similar to broadbeans only smaller