Thank you for all the feedback!

I’ve decided to call America the United States, keep the repetitive use of “little,” and try another iteration of the red bean story.

Once upon a time, in the heart of the United States, there grew a little red bean.

Beginning to sprout and grow, it had many dreams about what it would be when it grew up.

Oh, to be a little red bean! The world is full of possibilities!

The little red bean dreamed of becoming comforting chili or baked beans adorned with bacon and brown sugar.

Yet, beyond those familiar possibilities, what else could a little red bean become?

To answer that question, the little red bean set off on an adventure.

First, the little red bean went to China, where the prospect of becoming a heavenly mooncake filled with red beans was met with pure delight.

Then to Japan, where the idea of becoming a delectable red bean pancake (Dorayaki!) or a scoop of luxurious red bean ice cream was dazzling!

Next stop: Korea, where becoming the crown jewel of shaved ice desserts, topped with sweetened red beans (Patbingsu), beckoned.

In Vietnam, red beans were used in a delightful sweet red bean soup (Chè đậu đỏ).

Warmly greeted by the sunshine in Mexico, the aromatic world of refried beans (Frijoles) was discovered.

In Brazil, the little red bean marveled at the rich flavors of a traditional stew (Feijoada).

And yet another savory encounter awaited in India, where the little red bean embraced the widespread enjoyment of red bean curry (Rajma).

These were new exciting possibilities!

The little red bean returned home very happy.

Someday, it would decide its destiny.

But for now, the little red bean was happy to keep learning about what could be.

“Oh, to be a little red bean! The world is full of possibilities!”