Do you need to cook green beans?

Green beans are best when cooked, but they are also edible when raw. They should not be eaten uncooked in large amounts, as this can cause digestive issues.

Raw green beans contain a type of lectin called phytohaemagglutinin (PHA), which can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if consumed in large amounts. Cooking inactivates this toxin, making green beans safe to eat.

Cook green beans until they are tender but still have a slight crunch. This can be done by boiling, steaming, stir-frying, or roasting them. Do not overcook green beans, as this will make them soggy and lose their flavor.