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This is not to say that other combinations won't work. As always, we advocate intuitive experimentation in the kitchen – follow your own taste buds! But if you need some inspiration, or want to try something different, here are some common pairings to get you started. Tell us about any of your favorites in the comments.

• Aduki Beans: coriander, cumin, ginger

• Black Beans: bay leaf, chile peppers, cilantro, coriander, cumin, epazote, garlic, ginger, oregano, parsley, savory, thyme

• Black-Eyed Peas: bay leaf, cayenne, chile peppers, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, cumin, ginger, turmeric

• Cannellini Beans: parsley, sage, savory, tarragon, thyme

• Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans): cardamom, cilantro, coriander, cumin, fennel, garlic, ginger, mint, paprika, parsley, rosemary

• Fava Beans: basil, cilantro, cumin, fennel, garlic, mint, parsley, rosemary, sage, savory, thyme

• Flageolet Beans: parsley, savory, thyme

• Kidney Beans: bay leaf, cumin, fennel, oregano, parsley, sage, savory, thyme

• Lentils: bay leaf, cardamom, cilantro, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, cumin, curry, ginger, mint, parsley, oregano, thyme, turmeric

• Lima Beans: cilantro, mint, parsley, sage

• Mung Beans: cilantro, coriander, cumin, ginger

• Navy Beans: basil, bay leaf, garlic, parsley, savory, thyme

• Pinto Beans: chile peppers, cilantro, cumin, oregano, parsley, savory

Related: How to Cook Beans

(Image: Emily Ho)