Zinc is a metal that is normally found in small amounts in nature. It is used in many commercial industries and can be released into the environment during mining and smelting (metal processing) activities. People living near smelters or industries using zinc could be exposed to higher levels of zinc by drinking water, breathing air and touching soil that contains the metal.
Step 3: Blanch the green beans. 1  Bring a large pot of water to boiling. Allow 1 gallon of water per pound of green beans. 2  Fill a large bowl with ice water. 3  Working in batches, carefully lower the green beans into the boiling water.  Boil small beans for 2 minutes, medium beans for 3 minutes, and large beans for 4 minutes.
The alternate, and more popular, method is to put the fava beans in boiling salted water to blanch for 30 seconds. Remove the beans from the boiling water and submerge them in ice cold water to stop the cooking process. This step softens the second skin, making it easier to remove. With your fingers, squeeze the bean out from its skin. Now, you can use the beans as directed in any recipe of your choice.