Mike Heath and Alvaro Peralta

Grown by: Mike Heath and Alvaro Peralta

When you think of Idaho, potatoes probably come to mind. But tucked into the fertile heart of the Magic Valley, you’ll find something just as remarkable: some of the finest heirloom beans in the country. This is where M&M Heath Farm, led by organic pioneer Mike Heath and his longtime partner, Alvaro Peralta, grows our silky, golden Tiger Eye beans.

An Organic Pioneer in the Desert

Magic Valley isn’t your typical farmland. With its arid climate, sandy soils, and cool nights, it’s a place where crops like beans, barley, wheat, and corn flourish under the right hands. Mike Heath has been one of those hands for decades. He’s considered an organic trailblazer by his peers, even earning a feature in Michael Pollan’s Botany of Desire.

Instead of quick fixes or chemicals, Mike has always relied on nature’s own systems. Crop rotations keep the soil healthy and alive, compost provides nutrients, and beneficial insects take care of pests.

The Right Hand at the Right Time

While Mike built the foundation, today much of the day-to-day farming is led by Alvaro Peralta, who has worked alongside him for more than 20 years. Alvaro carries forward the same respect for the land and commitment to organic practices, ensuring every bean grown here is both flavorful and sustainable.

Meet the Tiger Eye Bean

Tiger Eye beans are as beautiful as they are delicious. Their golden marbled skins are almost too stunning to cook, but when you do, you’ll understand why South American farmers cherished this heirloom for centuries. The skins melt away into a creamy, velvety texture, while the flavor is earthy, nutty, and subtly sweet, like a pinto turned up to ten.

These beans love Mediterranean flavors, pairing naturally with tomatoes, lemon, dill, and olive oil. They also shine in hearty soups and make an unforgettable bean dip.

Why It Matters

Every bag of Tiger Eye beans tells a bigger story. It’s about soil nurtured back to life through patience and care, farmers who believe in doing things the right way, and a food tradition that stretches across continents. M&M Heath Farm shows us that even in an arid valley in Idaho, when you farm with respect for nature, you can grow something truly extraordinary.