Appaloosa beans are spotted beans, about one-half inch long, that get their name from the spotted Appaloosa horse. They have a delicate flavor and double in size when cooked, which is the predominate way to prepare them. Very young pods can be eaten raw, like snap beans. Appaloosa beans are related to the kidney bean and can be used in place of them or pinto beans in soups and stews. They are available in late summer.