Royal Purple Pod beans are a type of edible pod bean that is a deep purple color. After cooking, they turn a brilliant green.  They are the edible pod beans that have lots of vitamin A, and potassium, as well as a fair amount of vitamin C. They are low in calories, about 30 per cup of cooked snap beans. 

 Many call these string beans after the string that ran along their sides...this string has been eliminated by the work of American botanists that set out to build a better eating bean. Most modern beans are now stringless. Choose slender, crisp, dark purple beans that have a bright color and no blemishes or soft spots...avoid those with large swollen seed pods as these are more mature and woody and less flavorful.

Allow 1/4 lb. per person. Store Royal Purple pod beans in the refrigerator for no more than 4 days, unwashed in a plastic container or bag. Beans can be sauteed, steamed, boiled and microwaved. They are wonderful in stir fry dishes, and of course Mom's casserole.