[pulse]

So having ignored my runner beans for ages I havested an epic load today.

However due to my neglect some are very large and stringy. The beans are inside are quite large in many cases.

My question is simple...can I actually eat the beans inside the runner?

If so what is the best way to prepare, I intend to blanch and freeze initially.

Thanks

[Yorkie]

I think you've answered your own question correctly there - blanch the individual pods for 1-2 mins and then cool rapidly before freezing.  It's often useful to freeze on open trays before bagging up, so the beans don't clump together.

[tode]

We add biggish beans (up to about ³/₄ inch) to the younger pods and cook together. But if they're really old, starting to yellow, I would imagine that all you could do is use em in stews or ragouts, since they get pretty hard.
Good chewing   

[strangerachael]

or leave them to ripen fully and sow next year

[tode]

Hello, Pulse: we've got another frog on the forum