Keto Legumes Guide

16 items classified under standard Keto guidelines.

This guide covers all 16 legumes classified under Keto guidelines. Keto evaluates foods primarily by net carbohydrate content, which determines how each item in this category is classified.

Under Keto guidelines, nearly every item in the legumes category is classified as Not Allowed. The reason is consistent across the category: each item is high enough in net carbs that even a small portion can use up most of a daily keto allowance. The nutrition data below is still useful for comparing alternatives or understanding what these foods contribute when eaten on other dietary frameworks.

Quick Reference

Food Status Net carbs (per 100g)
Edamame Limited 3.7g
Tempeh Limited 7.6g
Tofu Limited 15.8g
Black Beans Not Allowed 13.9g
Black-Eyed Peas Not Allowed 13.3g
Canned Beans Not Allowed 15.5g
Chickpeas Not Allowed 50.8g
Hummus Not Allowed 9.5g
Kidney Beans Not Allowed 14.3g
Lentils Not Allowed 52.7g
Lima Beans Not Allowed 15.3g
Mung Beans Not Allowed 46.3g
Navy Beans Not Allowed 45.5g
Pinto Beans Not Allowed 16g
Soybeans Not Allowed 6.8g
White Beans Not Allowed 17.4g

Classification Breakdown

3 Limited — These items have a carb load that depends on portion size and what else is eaten in the same meal. 13 Not Allowed — These are high enough in net carbs that even a small portion can use up most of a daily keto allowance.

On keto, the relevant number is total carbohydrates minus fiber — the "net carb" figure tracked against a 20–50g daily ceiling.

Limited Legumes (3)

Edamame

Limited

Edamame is classified as Limited on Keto, with 3.7g net carbs per 100g. This means it is a carb load that depends on portion size and what else is eaten in the same meal. It also contains 11.9g protein and 5.2g fat, which may factor into overall meal planning. Among the 16 items in this category, edamame sits at the low end for net carbs — next closest is Soybeans at 6.8g. Portion control is key here — a small amount may fit within the diet's parameters, while a full serving may not.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

121kcalCalories
11.9gProtein
5.2gFat
8.9gCarbs
5.2gFiber
3.7gNet Carbs
FAQ (6 questions)
Is edamame allowed on keto?
Edamame is classified as Limited under standard keto guidelines. A half-cup serving of shelled edamame contains approximately 4–5g of net carbohydrates after subtracting fiber. This is substantially lower than most other legumes and may fit within keto carbohydrate limits in controlled portions. Published keto references vary on edamame's classification between Allowed and Limited.
How many carbs are in edamame?
A half-cup of shelled cooked edamame (approximately 75–80g) contains approximately 8–9g of total carbohydrates and 4g of fiber, resulting in approximately 4–5g of net carbohydrates. A full cup contains approximately 8–10g of net carbohydrates.
Why is edamame lower in carbs than other legumes?
Edamame is harvested as immature soybeans before the seeds fully develop and accumulate starch. Mature legumes such as black beans and chickpeas contain 12–22g of net carbohydrates per half-cup cooked. Edamame's starch content is lower than mature legumes because it is harvested at an earlier stage.
Is edamame different from mature soybeans on keto?
Edamame (immature soybeans) has a substantially lower net carbohydrate content per serving than mature dried soybeans cooked. Mature soybeans contain approximately 8–10g of net carbohydrates per half-cup cooked. Edamame is classified differently due to its lower starch content.
How does edamame compare to other legumes on keto?
Edamame (4–5g net carbs per half-cup) has substantially lower net carbohydrate content than black beans (~15g), chickpeas (~16–17g), and lentils (~14g) per half-cup cooked. Published keto references classify most legumes as non-compliant due to their high carbohydrate content; edamame's lower carbohydrate content places it in the Limited category rather than Not Allowed.
Can edamame be included in a keto meal?
Published keto classification references classify edamame as Limited based on its 4–5g of net carbohydrates per half-cup serving. A half-cup serving may fit within keto carbohydrate limits in controlled quantities. Classification in context depends on total carbohydrate intake from all meal components.

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Tempeh

Limited

Tempeh is classified as Limited on Keto, with 7.6g net carbs per 100g. The classification reflects that it is a carb load that depends on portion size and what else is eaten in the same meal. Nutritionally, it also delivers 20.3g protein and 10.8g fat per serving. Among the 16 items in this category, tempeh sits at the low end for net carbs — next closest is Hummus at 9.5g. The "Limited" label means the classification depends on specific conditions — portion size, brand formulation, or preparation method can shift it from compliant to non-compliant.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

VariantCaloriesProteinFatCarbsFiberNet Carbs
Plain192kcal20.3g10.8g7.6g7.6g
Cooked195kcal19.9g11.4g7.6g7.6g
FAQ (6 questions)
Is tempeh allowed on keto?
Tempeh is classified as Limited under standard keto guidelines. A 3-ounce (85g) serving of plain tempeh contains approximately 7–9g of net carbohydrates. This amount is manageable within a keto budget in controlled serving sizes, but tempeh has a higher carbohydrate content than most animal protein sources used in keto eating.
How many carbs are in tempeh?
Plain soy tempeh contains approximately 9g of total carbohydrates and 1–2g of fiber per 3-ounce (85g) serving, yielding approximately 7–9g of net carbohydrates. The carbohydrates come from the soybean base of the fermented product. Tempeh made from other legumes (chickpea, black bean) may have similar or slightly different carbohydrate content.
How does tempeh compare to tofu on keto?
Tempeh contains more carbohydrates than tofu. A 3-ounce serving of firm tofu contains approximately 1–2g of net carbohydrates, while the same serving of tempeh contains approximately 7–9g. Both are classified as Limited under standard keto guidelines, but tofu has a significantly lower carbohydrate content per serving. Tofu is more commonly referenced in keto contexts for this reason.
Is tempeh a good keto protein source?
Tempeh provides approximately 17–19g of protein per 3-ounce serving — a high protein content. However, its 7–9g of net carbohydrates per serving is substantially higher than animal protein sources (chicken, beef, fish: 0g carbs per serving). Published keto references include tempeh as a Limited protein option, noting its higher carbohydrate contribution compared to meat-based alternatives.
Are flavored tempeh products keto-compliant?
Flavored tempeh products — teriyaki, smoked, seasoned — may contain added sugar or high-carbohydrate sauces that increase carbohydrate content above plain tempeh. Published keto references recommend plain unflavored tempeh for keto use. Flavored varieties require label review to assess total carbohydrate content.
How is tempeh used in keto cooking?
Published keto references use tempeh in: crumbled and pan-fried as a ground meat substitute, sliced and grilled as a protein component in salads, marinated in soy sauce and keto-compliant seasonings, and cubed in stir-fries with low-carbohydrate vegetables. At 3-ounce controlled servings, tempeh can function as a plant-based protein source within keto carbohydrate budgets.

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Tofu

Limited

With 15.8g net carbs per 100g, Tofu earns a Limited classification on Keto. This means it is a carb load that depends on portion size and what else is eaten in the same meal. Within this category, it falls between Canned Beans and Pinto Beans for net carbs, ranking 10 of 16. Check the label carefully: the same product can be compliant or not depending on the specific brand or how it was prepared.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

VariantCaloriesProteinFatCarbsFiberNet Carbs
Firm144kcal17.3g8.7g2.8g2.3g0.5g
Soft/Silken270kcal18.8g20.2g8.9g3.9g5g
FAQ (6 questions)
Is tofu allowed on keto?
Tofu is classified as Limited under standard keto guidelines. Firm or extra-firm tofu contains approximately 1–2g of net carbohydrates per 3-ounce (85g) serving, making it generally compatible with keto carbohydrate budgets. Its relatively low carbohydrate content compared to other soy and legume products makes it the most frequently referenced plant-based keto protein option.
How many carbs are in tofu?
Firm tofu contains approximately 2g of total carbohydrates and 0.3g of fiber per 3-ounce (85g) serving, yielding approximately 1.5–2g of net carbohydrates. Silken tofu contains slightly more carbohydrates (approximately 2–3g per 3-ounce serving). Extra-firm tofu has a similar carbohydrate profile to firm tofu.
Is tofu a good protein source for keto?
Firm tofu provides approximately 7–8g of protein and 3–4g of fat per 3-ounce serving with approximately 1–2g of net carbohydrates. While the carbohydrate content is low, tofu has less protein per serving than animal protein sources (chicken: 21g per 3-oz, beef: 22g per 3-oz). Published keto references include tofu as a Limited plant-based protein option.
Is silken tofu keto-compliant?
Silken tofu contains slightly more carbohydrates than firm tofu — approximately 2–3g of net carbohydrates per 3-ounce serving due to its higher water and natural sugar content. It is generally classified as Limited under standard keto guidelines. Silken tofu is referenced in keto dessert and smoothie recipes due to its creamy texture.
Are flavored or marinated tofu products keto-compliant?
Pre-marinated, baked, or flavored tofu products may contain added sugar, teriyaki sauce, or other carbohydrate-containing marinades that increase carbohydrate content above plain tofu. Flavored tofu products can be label-reviewed. Published keto references recommend plain firm or extra-firm tofu for keto use, marinated with keto-compliant ingredients at home.
How is tofu used in keto cooking?
Published keto references use tofu in: stir-fries with low-carbohydrate vegetables and keto-compliant sauces, baked and pan-fried as a meat substitute, cubed in soups, scrambled as a vegan egg substitute, blended in keto smoothies or desserts (silken tofu), and marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic. Its neutral flavor absorbs seasonings effectively.

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Not Allowed Legumes (13)

Black Beans

Not Allowed

Black Beans is classified as Not Allowed on Keto, with 13.9g net carbs per 100g. This means it is high enough in net carbs that even a small portion can use up most of a daily keto allowance. It also contains 8.2g protein and 7g fat, which may factor into overall meal planning. Within this category, it falls between Black-Eyed Peas and Kidney Beans for net carbs, ranking 6 of 16.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

VariantCaloriesProteinFatCarbsFiberNet Carbs
Dry341kcal21.6g1.4g62.4g15.5g46.9g
Cooked (boiled)132kcal8.9g0.5g23.7g8.7g15g
Canned91kcal4.8g1.3g15.4g6.8g8.6g
FAQ (6 questions)
Are black beans allowed on keto?
Black beans are classified as Not Allowed under standard keto guidelines. A half-cup serving of cooked black beans contains approximately 20–22g of net carbohydrates after subtracting fiber, which significantly exceeds typical keto per-serving carbohydrate targets.
How many carbs are in black beans?
A half-cup serving of cooked black beans contains approximately 20–22g of total carbohydrates and approximately 7–8g of fiber, resulting in approximately 12–15g of net carbohydrates. Some published keto references use the total carbohydrate figure rather than net carbohydrates when evaluating legumes.
Does the high fiber content of black beans make them keto-compatible?
Black beans are high in dietary fiber, but their net carbohydrate content after fiber subtraction — approximately 12–15g per half-cup — still substantially exceeds per-serving keto carbohydrate guidelines. Published keto classification references classify black beans as non-compliant.
Are canned black beans different from dried black beans for keto purposes?
Both canned and dried cooked black beans have similar carbohydrate profiles per serving. Canned black beans may have slightly different carbohydrate content depending on preparation and any added ingredients, but both are classified as non-compliant under standard keto guidelines.
Are any legumes keto-compliant?
Published keto classification references classify most legumes, including black beans, kidney beans, chickpeas, and lentils, as non-compliant due to their high net carbohydrate content. Edamame (immature soybeans) is noted separately in published keto references as having lower net carbohydrate content per serving than mature legumes.
Are black soybeans a keto-compatible alternative to black beans?
Black soybeans have a substantially lower net carbohydrate content than regular black beans — approximately 1–2g of net carbohydrates per half-cup cooked. Published keto classification references note that black soybeans are classified differently than regular black beans due to their carbohydrate profile.

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Black-Eyed Peas

Not Allowed

Black-Eyed Peas is classified as Not Allowed on Keto, with 13.3g net carbs per 100g. This means it is high enough in net carbs that even a small portion can use up most of a daily keto allowance. It also contains 7.2g protein and 7g fat, which may factor into overall meal planning. Within this category, it falls between Hummus and Black Beans for net carbs, ranking 5 of 16.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

166kcalCalories
7.2gProtein
7gFat
19.3gCarbs
6gFiber
13.3gNet Carbs

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Canned Beans

Not Allowed

With 15.5g net carbs per 100g, Canned Beans earns a Not Allowed classification on Keto. It is high enough in net carbs that even a small portion can use up most of a daily keto allowance. Beyond the primary classification, canned beans also provides 8.3g protein and 7.1g fat per 100g. Within this category, it falls between Lima Beans and Tofu for net carbs, ranking 9 of 16.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

189kcalCalories
8.3gProtein
7.1gFat
23.8gCarbs
8.3gFiber
15.5gNet Carbs

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Chickpeas

Not Allowed

At 50.8g net carbs per 100g, Chickpeas falls into the Not Allowed category under Keto guidelines. The classification reflects that it is high enough in net carbs that even a small portion can use up most of a daily keto allowance. Nutritionally, it also delivers 20.5g protein and 6g fat per serving. It ranks among the highest in this category for net carbs. The nearest lower option is Mung Beans at 46.3g.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

VariantCaloriesProteinFatCarbsFiberNet Carbs
Dry378kcal20.5g6g63g12.2g50.8g
Cooked (boiled)164kcal8.9g2.6g27.4g7.6g19.8g
Canned139kcal7.1g2.5g22.6g5.4g17.2g
FAQ (6 questions)
Are chickpeas allowed on keto?
Chickpeas are classified as Not Allowed under standard keto guidelines. A half-cup serving of cooked chickpeas contains approximately 22g of total carbohydrates and 6g of fiber, yielding approximately 16–17g of net carbohydrates. This significantly exceeds standard keto per-serving carbohydrate targets.
How many carbs are in chickpeas?
A half-cup of cooked chickpeas contains approximately 22g of total carbohydrates and 6g of fiber, resulting in approximately 16–17g of net carbohydrates. A full cup contains approximately 32–34g of net carbohydrates.
Are roasted chickpeas keto-compliant?
Roasted chickpeas have the same base carbohydrate content as cooked chickpeas and are classified as non-compliant under standard keto guidelines. Roasting concentrates the chickpeas, resulting in even higher net carbohydrate content per ounce of the roasted product.
Is hummus keto-compliant?
Hummus is made primarily from chickpeas and has a high net carbohydrate content per serving, typically 4–6g per two-tablespoon serving. Published keto classification references classify hummus as Limited or non-compliant depending on portion size. The chickpea base is the primary source of carbohydrates.
Are any legumes classified as keto-compliant?
Published keto classification references classify most legumes — including chickpeas, black beans, lentils, and kidney beans — as non-compliant due to their high starch content. Edamame (immature soybeans) is classified differently due to its lower net carbohydrate content per serving.
Is chickpea pasta keto-compliant?
Chickpea pasta is made from chickpea flour and has similar net carbohydrate content per serving to regular wheat pasta, typically 30–40g per cup cooked. Published keto references classify chickpea pasta as non-compliant.

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Hummus

Not Allowed

Hummus is classified as Not Allowed on Keto, with 9.5g net carbs per 100g. The classification reflects that it is high enough in net carbs that even a small portion can use up most of a daily keto allowance. Nutritionally, it also delivers 7.8g protein and 17.8g fat per serving. Among the 16 items in this category, hummus sits at the low end for net carbs — next closest is Black-Eyed Peas at 13.3g.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

237kcalCalories
7.8gProtein
17.8gFat
15gCarbs
5.5gFiber
9.5gNet Carbs

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Kidney Beans

Not Allowed

Kidney Beans is classified as Not Allowed on Keto, with 14.3g net carbs per 100g. This means it is high enough in net carbs that even a small portion can use up most of a daily keto allowance. It also contains 8.1g protein and 7g fat, which may factor into overall meal planning. Within this category, it falls between Black Beans and Lima Beans for net carbs, ranking 7 of 16.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

VariantCaloriesProteinFatCarbsFiberNet Carbs
Dry337kcal22.5g1.1g61.3g15.2g46.1g
Cooked (boiled)127kcal8.7g0.5g22.8g7.4g15.4g
FAQ (6 questions)
Are kidney beans allowed on keto?
Kidney beans are classified as Not Allowed under standard keto guidelines. Cooked kidney beans contain approximately 20g of net carbohydrates per half-cup serving. This amount equals the entire net carbohydrate target on strict keto, making kidney beans fundamentally incompatible with keto carbohydrate limits.
How many carbs are in kidney beans?
Cooked kidney beans contain approximately 20g of net carbohydrates per half-cup (90g) serving. Total carbohydrates are approximately 20g with approximately 7g of fiber, yielding approximately 13g of net carbohydrates per half-cup. Wait — actually: cooked kidney beans contain approximately 20g total carbs and about 7g fiber per half-cup, giving about 13g net carbs per half-cup. This is still very high relative to the 20–50g keto limit.
Do kidney beans have fiber?
Kidney beans are high in fiber — approximately 7–8g of dietary fiber per half-cup serving. However, even with fiber subtracted, net carbohydrates remain approximately 13g per half-cup. Published keto references classify kidney beans as not compliant because even the net carbohydrate count after fiber deduction far exceeds what is compatible with keto carbohydrate limits.
Are any beans allowed on keto?
Most beans are not classified as compliant under standard keto guidelines due to their high net carbohydrate content. Black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, navy beans, and chickpeas all contain 12–20g of net carbohydrates per half-cup cooked serving. Green beans are an exception — classified as compliant with approximately 3–4g net carbs per cup.
Are canned kidney beans different from dried on keto?
Canned cooked kidney beans have essentially the same carbohydrate content as home-cooked kidney beans — approximately 13g net carbohydrates per half-cup. The cooking method (canned vs. home-cooked) does not significantly change the net carbohydrate content. Both are classified as not compliant under standard keto guidelines.
What can replace kidney beans in keto recipes?
Published keto recipe resources substitute extra ground meat, additional vegetables, or cheese in dishes where kidney beans would typically be used — such as chili. Some keto chili recipes simply omit beans entirely, relying on meat, tomatoes, peppers, and spices for bulk and flavor.

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Lentils

Not Allowed

With 52.7g net carbs per 100g, Lentils earns a Not Allowed classification on Keto. This means it is high enough in net carbs that even a small portion can use up most of a daily keto allowance. It also contains 24.6g protein and 10.7g fiber, which may factor into overall meal planning. It ranks among the highest in this category for net carbs. The nearest lower option is Chickpeas at 50.8g.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

VariantCaloriesProteinFatCarbsFiberNet Carbs
Dry352kcal24.6g1.1g63.4g10.7g52.7g
Cooked (boiled)114kcal9g0.4g19.5g7.9g11.6g
FAQ (6 questions)
Are lentils allowed on keto?
Lentils are classified as Not Allowed under standard keto guidelines. Cooked lentils contain approximately 16g of net carbohydrates per half-cup serving. This amount represents 32–80% of the standard keto net carbohydrate budget of 20–50g, making lentils incompatible with standard keto carbohydrate limits.
How many carbs are in lentils?
Cooked lentils contain approximately 20g of total carbohydrates and approximately 4g of fiber per half-cup (100g) serving, yielding approximately 16g of net carbohydrates. All lentil varieties — green, brown, red, French/Puy — have similar carbohydrate profiles in cooked form.
Why are lentils not keto-compliant despite having fiber?
Lentils contain approximately 4g of fiber per half-cup, which reduces total carbohydrates to approximately 16g net carbohydrates per serving. However, 16g net carbohydrates per half-cup still represents a large portion of the keto limit. Published keto references classify lentils as not compliant because their net carbohydrate content makes it practically impossible to include them in standard keto carbohydrate budgets.
Are lentils lower in carbs than other legumes?
Lentils have slightly higher fiber than some other legumes, resulting in a somewhat lower net carbohydrate count than chickpeas or kidney beans. However, all these legumes have 12–17g of net carbohydrates per half-cup cooked serving — all sufficient to classify them as not compliant under standard keto guidelines.
Are red lentils different from green lentils on keto?
Red, green, brown, and black lentil varieties have similar carbohydrate profiles. All cooked lentil varieties contain approximately 14–18g net carbohydrates per half-cup. Published keto references classify all lentil varieties as not compliant due to their comparable net carbohydrate content per serving.
What can replace lentils in keto soup?
Published keto recipe resources substitute diced cauliflower, additional ground meat, or extra vegetables in keto soups and stews where lentils would typically provide body and texture. Keto lentil soup alternatives use these substitutes to create a similar consistency without the high carbohydrate content of lentils.

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Lima Beans

Not Allowed

With 15.3g net carbs per 100g, Lima Beans earns a Not Allowed classification on Keto. It is high enough in net carbs that even a small portion can use up most of a daily keto allowance. Beyond the primary classification, lima beans also provides 6.8g protein and 4.9g fiber per 100g. Within this category, it falls between Kidney Beans and Canned Beans for net carbs, ranking 8 of 16.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

113kcalCalories
6.8gProtein
0.9gFat
20.2gCarbs
4.9gFiber
15.3gNet Carbs

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Mung Beans

Not Allowed

With 46.3g net carbs per 100g, Mung Beans earns a Not Allowed classification on Keto. This means it is high enough in net carbs that even a small portion can use up most of a daily keto allowance. It also contains 23.9g protein and 16.3g fiber, which may factor into overall meal planning. It ranks among the highest in this category for net carbs. The nearest lower option is Navy Beans at 45.5g.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

347kcalCalories
23.9gProtein
1.2gFat
62.6gCarbs
16.3gFiber
46.3gNet Carbs

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Pinto Beans

Not Allowed

Pinto Beans is classified as Not Allowed on Keto, with 16g net carbs per 100g. The classification reflects that it is high enough in net carbs that even a small portion can use up most of a daily keto allowance. Nutritionally, it also delivers 8.4g protein and 7.1g fat per serving. Within this category, it falls between Tofu and White Beans for net carbs, ranking 11 of 16.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

VariantCaloriesProteinFatCarbsFiberNet Carbs
Dry62kcal5.3g0.9g11.6g11.6g
Cooked (boiled)143kcal9g0.7g26.2g9g17.2g

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Soybeans

Not Allowed

With 6.8g net carbs per 100g, Soybeans earns a Not Allowed classification on Keto. This means it is high enough in net carbs that even a small portion can use up most of a daily keto allowance. It also contains 13g protein and 6.8g fat, which may factor into overall meal planning. Among the 16 items in this category, soybeans sits at the low end for net carbs — next closest is Tempeh at 7.6g.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

147kcalCalories
13gProtein
6.8gFat
11gCarbs
4.2gFiber
6.8gNet Carbs

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White Beans

Not Allowed

With 17.4g net carbs per 100g, White Beans earns a Not Allowed classification on Keto. This means it is high enough in net carbs that even a small portion can use up most of a daily keto allowance. It also contains 9g protein and 6.8g fat, which may factor into overall meal planning. Within this category, it falls between Pinto Beans and Navy Beans for net carbs, ranking 12 of 16.

Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central

188kcalCalories
9gProtein
6.8gFat
23.3gCarbs
5.9gFiber
17.4gNet Carbs

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