Black beans are in the legumes family. They are black in color, have an oval shape, and are the size of a pea.http://www.hub-uk.com/cooking/tipsblackbeans.htm Black beans are sold either dried or canned.http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=2 When cooked, black beans have a mild, sweet taste, and have a soft texture on the inside.http://www.hub-uk.com/cooking/tipsblackbeans.htm
Black beans grow in warm temperatures between sixty-five and seventy-five degrees Fahrenheit. They grow for one-hundred and twenty days before they can be harvested. Before the beans are picked, they are left to dry by the sun on the bushes.http://www.hub-uk.com/cooking/tipsblackbeans.htm
Before preparing, check dried black beans for any abnormalities. Look for beans that have cracks, damage from insects, or if there is any moisture.http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=2 Also, look for any rocks and other debris.http://www.hub-uk.com/cooking/tipsblackbeans.htm Store dried black beans in a container to keep the air and moisture away. They will last for up to twelve months.http://www.usaid.gov/our_work/humanitarian_assistance/ffp/crg/fsbeansblack.htm Allow beans to soak for four hours before cooking to cut down on cooking time. One cup of dried beans equal two cups of cooked beans.http://www.hub-uk.com/cooking/tipsblackbeans.htm
Black beans are a source of protein, fiber, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, folate, vitamin A, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, and vitamin B6.http://www.usaid.gov/our_work/humanitarian_assistance/ffp/crg/fsbeansblack.htm Black beans have antioxidants, help to increase heart health, and keep blood sugar stable.http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=2
History And Background
Black beans originate from Mexico and Central America.http://www.hub-uk.com/cooking/tipsblackbeans.htm In the fifteenth century, black beans were introduced to Europe when Spanish explorers brought them back home from their voyages abroad. Afterwards, black beans spread across Africa and Asia. Today, beans are apart of daily diets in households around the world as an inexpensive source of nutrients.http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=2
Serving Suggestions
Dried black beans are boiled on the stovetop or in a pressure cooker to soften before they can be applied to any recipes. Using the stovetop method, bring to a boil, and turn the temperature down to a simmer. Cook for about two hours, or until soft.http://www.hub-uk.com/cooking/tipsblackbeans.htm Using a pressure cooker, cook for one and half hours.http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=2
Black beans are used in soup, chili, burritos, rice, and dip recipes.http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=2
Black Beans
The following video shows how to make black beans. Here is a list of ingredients: dried black beans; one bay leaf; olive oil for sauteing; white onion, chopped; one garlic clove, chopped; two green bell peppers, one cut into quarters, one finely chopped; one serrano pepper finely chopped; ground cumin; cider vinegar; salt; and black pepper. Place the black beans in a bowl and pour water on them until the water level is two inches above the beans. Allow to soak overnight. Add beans, water, bay leaf, and one green bell pepper in a saucepan and cook. Cook for two hours. Saute onion, garlic, bell pepper, serrano chili, cumin, and vinegar. Add mixture, salt, and black pepper to the beans. Cook for thirty more minutes.
References
Fast Facts
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Also known as
Turtle beans, black turtle beans, black Spanish beans, tampico beans, Venezuelan beans
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Ethnic origin
Mexican, Central American
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Usually served as
Main dish, side dish
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Usually served with
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Cooking method
Boiled, baked
