What is this food?
Yellow mung beans (dried), boiled. They’re small, yellow legumes that are commonly cooked until soft and used in soups, stews, and sweet or savory dishes.
Why it matters to health
Mung beans are a good plant-based source of fiber (8.3 g per 100 g) which helps you feel full and supports healthy digestion. They also provide carbohydrates with some sugar (2.2 g) and protein as part of a balanced meal. The small amount of fat (0.3 g) and sodium (2 mg) makes them a lighter option compared with many processed foods. Since they’re still a starchy legume, pairing them with vegetables and using proper portions helps keep meals balanced.
Healthier tips
- For a balanced plate: add mung beans with non-starchy vegetables (e.g., pechay, kangkong, sayote) and a lean protein or egg if needed.
- Portion guide: use about 1/2 to 1 cup cooked mung beans per meal, especially if you also eat rice.
- If you’re having them as a snack, pair with fruit or yogurt (instead of sugary toppings) to keep it more balanced.
- Watch added sugar if making sweet versions; flavor with cinnamon, vanilla, or a small amount of sweetener instead.
Common Filipino dishes
Ginisang munggo, Monggo with chicharon, Monggo soup (lugaw-style), Munggo salad, Sweet munggo (munggo with coconut milk)