Wiinuuch Beans (Fremont™ Beans)

With her interest in regional & cultural food history, the Fremont™ beans rode into our kitchen with our new executive chef, Tamara Stanger.

Over 800 years ago, Fremont™ beans were a staple food of the Wiinuuch (ancient ones) known as the Fremont People of the Four Corners Area, Idaho, Colorado, and Nevada. They were discovered in Southwestern Utah during an excavation of a clay pot in a cliff dwelling. From just 40 seeds, the Worden Family reintroduced them back into the soil in their farms in Monroe, Utah & Burlington, Colorado.

We had the great pleasure of hosting tribal elders for two nights of dinner this summer and it was the tribal historian who gave us their name for Fremont… Wiinuuch. To continue sharing these beans on our menu and through our online shop, it is with respect and integrity that we are also including their name for these Fremont™ beans… Wiinuuch Beans.

The beans are large, nutritious, rich in flavor, and vibrant in purple, blue, and white color. The Wiinuuch cultivated these beans, along with squash and corn to supplement fishing and hunting. Until the 1960’s, Fremont™ beans were unknown to modern civilization.

We’ve shared a basic recipe to get you going in the kitchen. Add your favorite flavors to the broth and slow-cook them, charro style.