Lupine

Lupine, Lupinus, is found all over North and South America. Perennial plants of the species grow from 1-5 feet tall, while some annual shrubs can grow up to 9.8 feet tall. The seeds of lupine, "lupin beans" were cultivated throughout the Roman Empire for culinary uses. Throughout the world, the seeds are used for different foods from vegan sausages to lupin-tofu or even enhancing baking flour.  Agriculturally, they are grown for seeds which can be used as an alternative to soybeans and used for stock feed for pigs and poultry. The market for livestock feed is higher than for human consumption but researchers consider lupin seeds superior to soybean for their potential health benefits. They contain similar protein, less fat, high in fiber and antioxidants, are gluten free and are considered a prebiotic, which is gaining traction in the industry of GI dietary health and wellness. Australian sweet lupins are high in protein, fiber and antioxidents, while European white lupin beans are sold in a salty solution in jars and can be eaten with or without the skin. Lupini dishes are common in Europe and are especially popular in Egypt as a street snack soaked in water and then brined.