One of the oldest cultivated plants in the world, the Scarlet Runner Bean originally came from America but has been grown and marketed on the Hofveitl farm for more than 20 years.

• The Styrian scarlet runner beans are an excellent source of protein and fibre.

Cooking Tip: before you cook the beans, allow them to soak for 12 to 24 hours in salt water. Use twice as much water as beans and add a pinch of caraway.