Legumes are the edible seeds of plants. They provide a good
source of protein, thiamine, folic acid, vitamin E, and fiber.
The insoluble fiber in legumes helps to lower blood cholesterol.
Examples of legumes are: dried beans, peas, and seeds (including
navy, broad, butter, northern, pinto, red, and black beans, as
well as chick peas, soybeans, and peanuts). Legumes are an
important source of protein for vegetarians, especially vegans.
The protein in legumes is considered incomplete, however, and
needs to be eaten in combination with whole grains to make a
complete (high-quality) protein (e.g., green beans, lentils, and
rice; navy beans and barley; soybeans and sesame seeds; red
beans and rice). Such combinations Simin B. Vaghefi