Mexico City black beans recipes. How to cook beans: red, white and black. Bean pastes. What to do if the beans are bitter

If you love Cuban cuisine, black beans hardly need an introduction. But did you know that delicious dishes, which are prepared from it, are at the same time incredibly healthy? Some of beneficial properties the beans will simply amaze you

Black beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein.

Like any other bean, black beans are a must for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet. With it, your body will not experience protein deficiency. Use it with whole grains- for example, with brown rice.

Black beans will keep your muscles, bones and joints healthy

Protein-rich black beans help strengthen muscles; at the same time, it does not contain saturated fats, and it is not as high in calories as meat. Dishes made from it are also good for bones due to their high calcium content. Finally, the omega-3 fatty acids it contains may prevent joint pain.

Black beans improve digestion

Heartburn, indigestion, and constipation are common problems for people whose diet is high in refined and canned foods that are low in fiber. Black beans, however, are rich in fiber, which helps digestive system toxins and waste.

Black beans reduce the risk of cancer

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. However, certain dietary choices can reduce your chances of getting this disease! Black beans contain 8 types of flavonoids known for their anti-cancer effects. In addition, the fiber we have already mentioned reduces the risk of malignant intestinal tumors.

Black beans are good for the heart

Fiber lowers the level of bad cholesterol in the body, which means you are less likely to have a heart attack. Research also shows that omega-3 fatty acids increase good cholesterol levels in the body.

Black beans are a great food for pregnant women

Expectant mothers benefit from black beans for various reasons. First of all, it is rich in folic acid, which is important for the development of the child. In addition, thanks to the fiber, beans help to cope with constipation in pregnant women, which occurs due to hormonal and physical changes in their bodies.

Black Beans Replenish Important Nutrient Deficiencies in Your Diet

Chances are, you're eating too much processed food, processed foods, and fast food during a typical day. While this saves a lot of time, it also means your diet is extremely low in nutrients. Bean dishes will help you cope with this! It contains manganese, calcium, antioxidants and the already mentioned omega-3 fatty acids.

Black beans help diabetics control blood sugar

If you are familiar with the diabetic lifestyle, you know how difficult it is to control blood glucose. The possibility of such control depends very much on your diet. Black beans are great for diabetics. Why? Because due to the fiber they contain, beans are digested slowly, which means your blood sugar also rises gradually, without causing unwanted spikes.

Black beans are good for the brain

Black beans are especially beneficial for your nervous system, in particular for the brain. The reason for this lies in the fact that black beans are rich in molybdenum, which is quite rare in food products. Molybdenum is extremely important for the nervous system - in particular, it reduces the risk of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases.

Black beans are easy to fit into your diet! And the five great recipes below prove it.

1. Black bean bread

This “loaf” with a delicious crispy crust just melts in your mouth. At the same time, it is also very useful!

Ingredients:

2 cans black beans

1.5 cups oatmeal

1 chopped sweet pepper

1 carrot, chopped

1 chopped onion

1 clove of garlic, mashed

1 tablespoon "liquid amino acids"

1 teaspoon cumin

3 tablespoons ketchup

Black pepper to taste

Extinguishing water

In a saucepan, simmer the onion in water until translucent, then add the garlic, pepper and carrots. Cook until soft, about 5-6 minutes.

In a large bowl, combine beans, oats and seasonings. Add the steamed vegetables and puree until soft but not completely smooth. If the puree is too dry, add water; if it is too wet, add oatmeal.

Place the dough in the loaf tin on baking paper and bake for about 30 minutes until crispy.

Serve with tomato sauce. Enjoy!

2. Black bean soup

A quick and easy black bean recipe that will satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients:

1 medium onion

1 sweet green pepper

1 large carrot

3 cloves garlic

2 cans black beans

1 can chicken broth

2 cups diced ham

1/4 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon salt

Black pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup sour cream

Heat oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Fry chopped onions, peppers, carrots and garlic; cook 5 minutes until soft. Add 1 can of beans and broth.

In a blender, puree another can of beans until soft. Mix with the contents of the saucepan. Bring the soup to a boil. Add ham, cumin, salt and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes. Serve with cheddar and sour cream.

3. Chocolate Black Bean Cake

How's that for bean pie? All we can tell you is that it's delicious!

Ingredients:

240 grams cooked black beans

3 large eggs

100 g sugar

3 tablespoons cocoa powder

50 g dark chocolate

1 teaspoon instant coffee or 1 glass of espresso

1/2 vanilla pod

1 tablespoon baking powder

Juice and zest of 1/2 orange

A pinch of salt

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees.

Combine all ingredients except dark chocolate in a blender. Stir until smooth.

Pour the mixture into the muffin tin and yes, it will be very runny. Cut the chocolate into small pieces and pour onto the surface. Dip some of it into the dough.

Bake for approximately 35 minutes. Let the cake cool completely before removing it from the pan.

4. Black bean burrito

Ingredients:

2 large tortillas

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 small onion

1/2 sweet pepper

1 teaspoon crushed garlic

1 can black beans

1 teaspoon chopped jalapeno pepper

85 g curd cheese

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

Wrap the tortillas in foil and heat in the oven to 180 degrees. Bake for 15 minutes.

Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions, peppers, garlic and jalapenos to the pan. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring. Add beans and cook for another 3 minutes.

The most used in the world - dry beans different varieties . It is sold in markets and shops. Any dry beans require soaking before cooking. Each variety has its own character, cooking secrets and recipes.

What are white beans and how to cook them?

White beans - the most neutral: acting in tandem with other products, it does not overshadow, but only softens their taste. Therefore, it is often used in spicy dishes, and puree is prepared from it and added to thick soups and stews. White bean flour is used in baking bread.

Lima or, as it is also called, butter beans - a variety of white beans with flat, large grains. It has a special, creamy taste. This variety is valued for its high nutritional properties and culinary value. Requires particularly long soaking and cooks for about an hour and a half. Lima is also good in soups and salads, often served with butter as a garnish.

White cannellini beans are especially well prepared in Italy and Spain. This variety has thinner skin and a nutty flavor in the tender flesh.

What is pinto and how to cook variegated beans?

Variegated beans (pinto)- the most common bean variety. It is used in different cuisines peace. Soak for 6-8 hours before cooking and then cook for 35-50 minutes. Sometimes they first cook for a few minutes, and then remove from the heat and leave for several hours, then drain the water, rinse the grains with water and cook until tender for 20-25 minutes. These beans are used for stewing with vegetables - onions, carrots, tomatoes, garlic and herbs.

What are kidney beans and how to cook red beans?

Kidney - red, purple or variegated red beans shaped like a kidney, hence their name - kidney bean (kidney in English - kidney). It has a rather dense peel and a pronounced taste. When cooked, due to its density, it retains its shape better than anyone else. Kidney makes very aromatic dishes. It is also used in soups, salads and main courses. All varieties of kidni are soaked for 6-8 hours and boiled for about an hour. After cooking, the grains change color to pale pink. It is advisable to add almost completely boiled beans to soups so that they do not change the color of the broth during cooking.

How to cook black beans?

Black beans- especially loved in Latin America. This variety of beans has a unique, sweetish taste with a mushroom note. When cooked, they lose their shape very quickly, so you don’t need to soak the black beans, but cook them over very low heat for at least two hours. Black beans go well with rice, they are added to soups, and complex side dishes are prepared from them. Also rich in protein, B vitamins and fiber.

How to cook green beans?

This type of bean has a green, green-violet, spotted color. The long pods contain soft milky seeds. Before cooking green beans cut on both sides, if necessary, cut in half to make it easier to cook.

Boil for about 3-5 minutes in boiling, salted water, and then drain and cool.



In this way, boiled beans can be stewed with vegetables, added to soups and salads, or frozen.

Beans are delicious and useful product, from which you can prepare a lot of dishes, snacks and preparations. However, many housewives refuse to cook it because they do not know how long to cook the beans to make them soft. It turns out that cooking beans is not at all difficult, the main thing is to know a few simple secrets.

How to cook beans correctly, the benefits of beans and the best recipes

Raw beans contain toxic substances that are destroyed only during heat treatment. The most in a simple way cooking beans is boiling. The prepared product can be used for preparing cold or hot dishes and snacks, side dishes or home canning.

Thanks to its mineral components, beans are considered a healthy dietary product. It contains large amounts of potassium, phosphorus, copper and zinc. Beans are a source of protein necessary for children's and medical diets.

Depending on the type and variety of beans, the cooking time and method may vary.

There are culinary rules that you can use to quickly cook beans at home, preserving all their beneficial properties and taste.

Rules and tips:

  1. Beans must be carefully sorted before cooking, removing all empty, dried out or changed color and shape beans. The taste of the finished dish depends on their quality, so do not skip this important stage of preparation.
  2. The beans should be soaked. The white variety is considered more delicate, so the soaking time can be reduced to 4-5 hours. During this time, all bitterness and harmful organic substances will disappear from the beans.
  3. The water should be discarded after soaking the beans. Liquid absorbs everything harmful substances and bitterness contained in raw beans. It can cause gastrointestinal irritation, so fresh water should be used for cooking.
  4. Cooking should be done over low heat. Due to extreme heat, beans lose most of their beneficial and nutritional properties.
  5. You should first place the frying pan on the stove that is turned on. Place the beans for frying on a well-heated surface.
  6. Cook until the beans are completely softened. Hard fruits are difficult to digest and can cause problems with the digestive system.
  7. Cooking is the main stage of preparation before further cooking. If you plan to fry or bake beans, the grains should first be boiled until tender.

Cooking recipes for all types of beans:

  1. Red. Pour fresh water over the prepared beans, place on low heat and bring to a boil. After 5 minutes of boiling, the water should be drained and replaced with cold water. Repeat the procedure for replacing the decoction 2 more times. The last time the liquid is brought to a boil, the heat is reduced to a minimum, and the beans are simmered until tender (soft) for 2 hours.
  2. White. Pour beans cold water, bring to a boil and simmer for 3 minutes. Remove the pan with beans from the heat, close the lid and leave to steep for 60 minutes. Drain the cooled broth, pour in the beans again and cook until tender.
  3. Capsicum. Pour cold water into a saucepan, bring to a boil and add salt to taste. Place the washed pods in boiling water and cook for 5-10 minutes (depending on size). Place the finished beans in a colander and cool.

How to prepare beans?

Preliminary preparation - cleaning. The beans must be poured onto a towel and sorted. All low-quality beans are removed: yellowed, changed shape, color, damaged, etc.

The main stage of preparation for cooking is soaking. Water is used for this. Since the liquid will absorb all harmful substances and bitterness, it is recommended to change it several times (every 2-3 hours).

How to soak beans?

The procedure for soaking beans before cooking is carried out several hours before preparing the main dish. The sorted beans must be poured into a container, the volume of which should be 3-4 times larger than the beans. Pour water into the beans in a ratio of 1:2 and leave for 6-12 hours. Depending on the size and type of beans, soaking time may vary.

Slow or cold way

This option takes a lot of time, but is the most optimal for preserving all the beneficial properties of beans. The grains are poured with cold (boiled) water and left for 10-12 hours in a cool, dark place. Large fruits can be left to soak overnight.

Water should be used previously boiled and cooled. Raw water will make the beans tough and lose their flavor.

Fast or hot method

If there is no time for long soaking, you can use more quick method. To do this, pour the beans with cold water, bring to a boil and leave in the broth for 1 hour. The procedure should be repeated 2-3 times, the last time you do not need to drain the water, but cook the beans until fully cooked.

Each time you prepare a decoction, you should take fresh water.

How to cook beans?

There are several ways to cook beans at home. It will be tasty, soft and healthy if you stick to simple rules. To prepare a side dish or snack, it is recommended to cook beans with the addition of vegetable oil. When the water boils, pour 1 tsp into it. olive or corn oil. This will make the grains tender and crumbly, while protecting them from cracking.

The second method of cooking beans so that they are soft and tasty is called combined. While cooking the grains, add cold water 4-5 times. You need to pour in the cold liquid at the moment when the broth boils strongly. Add water 1 glass at a time, do not stir the beans.

The general rule to follow concerns salt and spices. The grains should be salted 1-2 minutes before the end of cooking. Spices and herbs are not added to the broth, but along with the dressing before serving the dish.

Cooking time

The cooking time depends on the type and size of the grains. To find out exactly how long beans are cooked, with or without soaking, you should follow a simple rule:

  1. Light varieties will be ready after 60 minutes of vigorous boiling.
  2. Dark varieties take longer to cook, so it is better to use the method of adding cold water for them. The total time is 1-2 hours.
  3. Beans in pods cook much faster. The procedure takes 5-6 minutes for a fresh product and 8-10 minutes for a frozen one.

You can determine the exact time for how long to cook beans in a simple way. Pour water over a few grains and leave in a cool place. Remember the time during which the beans absorb all the liquid - the same amount will be needed to cook these grains.

Cooking methods. Recipes

Using culinary tips, you can prepare a lot of healthy dishes for every taste.

Beans are perfect for both a diet menu and a treat at a holiday table.

Original recipes will help even novice housewives learn how to prepare popular culinary masterpieces from simple and affordable ingredients. It is enough to cook beans correctly and choose suitable compatible products.

Traditional way of cooking

The classic way to cook any beans is to boil them until tender in a saucepan. After this, it can be used to add to any cold or hot dishes, or serve as an independent treat.

Required Products:

  • beans - 1 cup;
  • water – 2 glasses;
  • vegetable oil – 1 tsp;
  • salt and spices - to taste.

How to cook:

  1. Place the pre-soaked beans in a colander, allow all the liquid to drain and transfer the grains to a convenient pan.
  2. Pour chilled boiled water over the beans, add oil and turn on high heat.
  3. When the broth boils, reduce the heat to medium and cook, uncovered, for 60-70 minutes.
  4. Salt the finished beans, add spices and leave in the hot broth for 1-2 minutes.
  5. Before serving, the water must be drained.

Cooking black beans

Grains of this variety are considered the most healthy. They contain a large amount of flavonoids, omega-3 fatty acids and other organic substances. Black beans are recommended for use in medicinal and dietary dishes.

Method of preparation (1 serving):

  1. To preserve all the beneficial properties of beans, it is recommended to cook them traditional way. Rinse a glass of beans from dust, fill it with cold boiled water and leave for 2 hours in a cool place.
  2. To remove bitterness and harmful substances, the water will need to be changed 2-3 times. Fill the grains with clean cold water all the time until they absorb a sufficient amount of liquid.
  3. After preparing the beans, transfer them to a saucepan or slow cooker and cook until soft for 50 minutes.

How to cook white beans

Delicate grains white variety you can cook different ways: on the stove, in the microwave or in the slow cooker. The cooking sequence is the same for all options, and the choice of cookware and equipment depends only on the cook:

  • the method of cooking white beans is not much different from the traditional one - the grains need to be cleaned and soaked;
  • strain the swollen beans and pour in liquid so that it covers the grains completely;
  • place the dishes on medium heat;
  • bring the water to a boil, after a minute drain and refill the beans;
  • Bring the broth to a boil again, reduce the heat and continue cooking for another 40-50 minutes.

In order not to overcook the fruits, half an hour after the start of cooking they need to be checked for readiness every 10 minutes.

If the grains are being prepared for soup, the cooking time can be increased by another 20 minutes.

How to cook red beans

Drain the water in which the beans were soaked and rinse well. Place the beans in a sieve and allow excess liquid to drain. When the grains have dried a little, place them in a saucepan and add fresh water to completely cover the product.

Place the pan over medium heat to avoid boiling. Cook until the grains are soft, adding cold water if necessary. The total cooking time takes approximately 1.5-2 hours.

Red beans with soaking for salad or borscht

This recipe makes soft but whole bean kernels. Neat beans are perfect for various salads, vegetable appetizers or classic Ukrainian borscht.

Sequencing:

  1. Prepare a soaking container, a saucepan, a colander or sieve, beans and boiled water. It is important to remember that you cannot fill beans with raw tap water. Otherwise, even after several hours of cooking, they will remain hard.
  2. Check the grains, remove any spoiled or empty ones. Place the remaining beans in a sieve and rinse thoroughly to remove any dust or other debris.
  3. Pour boiled water over the prepared beans and leave for 8 hours. The amount of liquid should be 2 times more than grains.
  4. When the fruits are saturated, drain off the remaining liquid and rinse the grains themselves again. clean water. Place the beans in a saucepan, add water, bring it to a boil and cook until tender for an hour.
  5. Strain the cooked beans through a sieve and use for preparing any dishes or borscht.

Method for preparing beans for puree

The dish is best prepared from white or dark grains. Before cooking the beans until soft, the product must be soaked for 12-14 hours. It's best to let the beans soak overnight. When the grains are soft and crumbly, the hot broth in which they were boiled should be drained.

If the puree is being prepared for soup, grind the beans in a blender until homogeneous mass, after which any vegetable or meat additives are added. If served as a side dish, the beans are also ground in a blender, after which salt, spices and herbs are added for taste. You can add warm milk, which will make the puree lighter and airier.

Cooking method without pre-soaking

There are express methods in which you can cook both white and red beans without soaking the grains. Sometimes housewives add baking soda or lemon juice. This allows you to reduce cooking time to 3-4 hours. However, the most in a fast way, thanks to which the grains will not only be soft, but also retain all their beneficial properties, the addition of seaweed is considered.

When the water with beans boils, add a dry seaweed leaf to it. You can use a dry extract or part of a sheet of nori seaweed used to make sushi. In this case, the beans will not only be cooked in 35-40 minutes, but will also be enriched with useful microelements necessary for the body.

Cooking white beans in a slow cooker

Any type of dry beans can be cooked in a slow cooker. To preserve the nutritional properties of the product, the grains should be soaked in advance. This can be done directly in the bowl of the device or any convenient container. Maximum amount, which can be cooked at one time - 3 cups or 500 g.

Cooking beans in a slow cooker consists of 3 steps:

  • the beans are washed;
  • the beans are placed in a bowl and filled with clean water;
  • the corresponding program is turned on: “Beans”, “Beans” or “Soup”.

By default, cooking time takes 90-120 minutes. If necessary, the time can be increased.

Beans in a pressure cooker

Cooking food in a pressure cooker helps reduce time. The device can cook all types of beans, and you can use methods with or without soaking. The peculiarity of this method is that salt is added to the water immediately. This helps keep the grains intact.

The cooking process consists of several steps:

  • until the water in the bowl boils, you need to cook without closing the lid;
  • after this the lid is closed;
  • under pressure, reduce the heat and stop the process for 2 minutes;
  • inside the bowl the temperature is forcedly cooled (using a valve and cold water);
  • Bring the beans to readiness over medium heat without a lid.

The dish is suitable for consumption both hot and cold.

To prepare you will need:

  • beans - 2 cups;
  • tomatoes or tomato paste (50 ml) – 3 pcs.;
  • onion – 1 pc.;
  • carrots – 1 pc.;
  • parsley – 1 bunch;
  • vegetable oil – 1 tbsp. l.;
  • garlic – 1-2 cloves;
  • salt and spices - to taste.

How to cook:

  1. Peel the onion and cut into thin rings. Fry until golden color in hot oil.
  2. Grind the carrots or cut them into strips.
  3. Divide the tomatoes into 4-6 parts.
  4. Add vegetables to onions, stir and continue frying. Add tomato, salt and spices, bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Add pre-cooked beans to tomato sauce, stir and simmer over low heat for 3-5 minutes.
  6. Chop the cockerel greens as finely as possible and mix with grated garlic. Sprinkle the treat with the spicy mixture and serve.

A tasty and healthy dish for every day.

Required Products:

  • beans (dry) – 500 g;
  • tomato – 100 g;
  • carrots – 1 pc.;
  • sugar – 1/3 tsp;
  • Bay leaf- 1 PC.;
  • greens – 1/2 bunch;
  • vegetable oil for frying – 50 ml;
  • allspice - to taste.

Preparation:

  1. Soak and cook the beans in advance. When the beans are cooked, place the beans in a colander and allow excess water to drain.
  2. The vegetable mixture is prepared in a separate bowl. Cut the onion into cubes, chop the carrots on a medium grater. Pour vegetable oil into a frying pan or saucepan, heat and fry the onions and carrots until soft.
  3. Add the beans to the vegetables, stir and simmer for 10 minutes. Separately mix the tomato, sugar and spices and add to the vegetable mixture. Pour in half a glass of water and continue cooking for 15 minutes. 5 minutes before the end of cooking, add bay leaves and herbs, cover the vegetables with a lid.

Spicy beans with eggs

An original snack for every day and for the holiday table:

  • boiled beans – 2 cups;
  • tomatoes in their own juice 3-5 pcs.;
  • onion – 1 head;
  • oil – 30 ml;
  • adjika – 50 ml;
  • spices and salt - to taste;
  • sour cream for serving.

Grind the tomatoes into a puree, mix with adjika and spices. Chop the onion into thin rings and fry in oil until soft. Add the beans and tomato mixture to the onion, stir and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes.

Before serving, season with sour cream or garlic sauce.

Bean Pie

One of the options for preparing Ossetian pastries.

Required ingredients:

  • butter – 150 g;
  • yeast dough – 1 kg;
  • boiled red beans – 3 cups;
  • allspice black pepper – 1/3 tsp;
  • salt - to taste.

Preparation:

  1. Mash the beans or grind in a blender until smooth. Add oil, salt and spices, stir.
  2. Divide the finished dough into 4 parts, roll each into a flat cake with a diameter of 20 cm.
  3. Place a handful of filling in the middle of each piece of dough and pinch the edges, gathering toward the center.
  4. Turn the flatbread over, seam side down, and roll it out to about 1 cm thick.
  5. Bake the pies in a preheated oven at +180°C for 30-35 minutes. Before serving, brush the surface of each pie with melted butter.

Soup with beans and mushrooms

Products:

  • ready beans – 200 g;
  • champignons – 200 g;
  • onion – 1 pc.;
  • potatoes – 3 pcs.;
  • carrots – 1 pc.;
  • bay leaf – 1 pc.;
  • vegetable oil for frying;
  • salt - to taste.


Recipe:

  1. Peel the potatoes and cut each tuber into 4-6 pieces. Place the potatoes in a saucepan, add boiling water and cook over medium heat.
  2. Chopped champignons thin bars, fry in a frying pan with onions and carrots. Add the vegetable mixture to the pan with the potatoes and cook for 10 minutes.
  3. When the potatoes are ready, add the beans, salt and bay leaf. Bring the soup to a boil and remove from heat.

Dietary bean soup

Products:

  • ready beans – 300 g;
  • onions – 2 pcs.;
  • tomato – 2 tbsp. l.;
  • carrots – 1 pc.;
  • salt - to taste.
  1. Cut the onion into cubes, grate the carrots.
  2. Pour boiling water over the boiled beans, add vegetables and season with tomato.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook until the vegetables are soft. A few minutes before the end of cooking, add salt and any spices.

Beans for vegetable side dish

There are many options for preparing beans for side dishes.

If desired, you can use any vegetables and spices to add additional flavor and aroma to the appetizer.

Depending on the products for which the side dish is being prepared, you can use any type of beans.

Ingredients:

  • red and white beans - 1 cup each;
  • corn (grains) – 1 cup;
  • cherry tomatoes – 5-7 pcs.;
  • lemon – 1 pc.;
  • hot pepper – 1 pc.;
  • olive oil – 1 tbsp. l.;
  • leaf salad.

Cooking method:

  1. Wash the lettuce leaves and tear them into small pieces with your hands (do not cut them with a knife). Place on the bottom of the salad bowl.
  2. In a convenient bowl, mix beans and corn grains, add chopped peppers and tomatoes.
  3. Gently place the vegetable mixture on top of the lettuce leaves, season with olive oil and garnish with lemon wedges. Salad dressing can be made separately from a mixture of oil and lemon juice.

Microwave cooking

Universal way:

  1. Dry bean grains should be soaked in water in advance (proportion 1:2).
  2. Drain the water and transfer the beans to glass jar or a ceramic bowl.
  3. Pour in the grains, place in the microwave and turn on at maximum power. Cook for 10 minutes, then place in a sieve or colander to drain the broth.
  4. Mix the boiled beans, add salt and spices to taste.

How to determine the readiness of a product?

Ready boiled beans should be strong, whole, but soft inside the grain. You can determine readiness during cooking in 2 ways: by taste or using a knife or other sharp object. Soft beans should have a thin skin and be easily pierced, but not cracked. The popped grains can be used for puree soup or side dish.

How long does it take to cook frozen green beans?

Cooking beans depends not only on the type and variety, but also on the method used. Frozen semi-finished products are prepared much faster, since they have already undergone primary heat treatment. On average, the pods cook for 8-10 minutes.

It must be remembered that it is not recommended to defrost semi-finished products after blast freezing. This way, the products will lose not only some of their beneficial properties, but also their visual appeal. To prepare a salad or side dish, the frozen pods should be thrown directly into boiling salted water.

How to cook the pods?

When using green beans, you should pay attention not only to their appearance, but also sizes. Cooking time, as well as the taste of the product, depend on its age. Young bean pods cook quickly. If you fill them hot water, they will be ready to eat in just 7 minutes.

Pods with thicker, tougher skins will take 10-12 minutes to cook. It is recommended to cut adult fibrous fruits into 2-3 parts. After freezing, the pods cook 2 times faster, 4-6 minutes.

What to do if the beans are bitter?

The procedure of soaking dry grains is used not only to reduce their cooking time, but also to remove harmful organic substances. If the beans are not soaked, then the bitterness will remain in the boiled fruits. However, bitterness can also be present in soaked grains, for several reasons:

  • some varieties of beans are naturally bitter;
  • improper preparation of grains (insufficient soaking time);
  • spoiled or rotten fruits.

If the quality of the beans is beyond doubt, but after cooking they have a bitter taste, there are several ways to get rid of it:

  1. Wrap the cooled boiled fruits in a plastic bag and place in freezer. After defrosting, the bitterness will go away.
  2. If bitterness is a feature of the variety, you can add hot spices and herbs. This will highlight the spicy taste of the grains.
  3. In the event that the bitterness remains and the beans have bad smell, they should be thrown away. It is not recommended to eat bitter beans - most likely, the grains were improperly stored and spoiled.

There are about a hundred varieties of beans. Each of them has its own varietal characteristics. Depending on the type of plant product, it can be used to prepare not only salty and spicy, but also sweet dishes.

A tasty and healthy product provides the body with all the necessary substances.

By learning how to properly cook beans, you can supplement your diet with many tasty and healthy treats for every taste.

Beans belong to the legume family. Its homeland is considered to be South and Central America. Breeders have developed a large number of varieties, including a crop with black fruits. In cooking, it has proven itself due to its nutritional value and large size. And the benefits and harms of black beans have been studied in traditional medicine.

What do black beans look like?

Beans are an annual crop. It can grow like a bush, reaching half a meter in height, or trail like a vine, growing 3 to 5 m in length. The plant has developed roots that grow up to 1 m. Pointed, heart-shaped leaves with a wrinkled surface extend from the fleecy stem. They are arranged alternately. Cultivated flowers grow in inflorescences. They are white or purple in color. Inflorescences bloom at the end of June or July. And at the end of August and September the fruits ripen. These are long beans whose colors can be green, yellow and purple. Inside there are large grains resembling an ellipse shape. Beans are smooth, black or purple. They are found in plain colors, spotted, and with patterns in the form of veins. The grains taste sweet and tender.

Vitamin and mineral composition of black beans

The benefits of black beans have been scientifically proven. It contains a large number of amino acids, among which the body needs lysine and glutamine. These substances have healing properties, play an important role in metabolism and are needed for the prevention of tumors. The culture also contains:

  • vitamins A, K, E, group B;
  • useful minerals;
  • magnesium;
  • potassium;
  • calcium;
  • copper;
  • zinc;
  • selenium;
  • phosphorus;
  • iron.

The content of useful substances in black beans is significantly higher than in other types. The grains are saturated with fiber, which supports intestinal microflora, takes Active participation in metabolism, reduces cholesterol in the blood.

At large quantities useful elements, contains heavy metals and toxic substances that can harm the body. Therefore, it must be eaten after heat treatment. Consuming it raw can lead to severe poisoning.

Calories and nutritional value of black beans

Black beans are a moderate calorie food, which enhances their benefits. There are 132 calories per 100 g of beans.

Nutritional value (BJU) of beans per 100 g

What are the benefits of black beans?

Among legumes, black beans are one of the healthiest. Its composition is closest to animal protein. The benefits of the product are as follows:

  • thanks to protein and calcium, beans strengthen muscle, bone tissue, nails and hair;
  • normalizes the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract;
  • increases metabolism, normalizes blood sugar levels;
  • stabilizes carbohydrate balance;
  • removes excess water from the body, relieves swelling;
  • black bean amino acids provide energy;
  • Thanks to iron, the culture normalizes heart function and cleanses blood vessels;
  • black beans are recommended as a prevention of atherosclerosis;
  • the culture has a diuretic property, which has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the liver;
  • being an antioxidant, it improves skin condition and rejuvenates;
  • Thanks to the B vitamins it contains, especially folic acid, beans are calming. nervous system, helps cope with apathy, stress, insomnia;
  • normalizes arterial pressure, increases immunity.

Due to the rich content of useful elements, they are added to medications, including those intended for the treatment and prevention of colon cancer.

For women

The beneficial properties of black beans have a beneficial effect on the female body. It is recommended to be used in food during a diet. Possessing rejuvenating properties, the product improves skin condition and complexion. Use legume Helps strengthen nails and hair. Taking it helps cope with mood swings during menopause, and makes it easier for teenagers to cope with hormonal changes without harm to the body.

For men

Constant consumption of black beans has a positive effect on men's health. They contain zinc, which plays an important role in the treatment and prevention of prostatitis. Eating vegetables helps improve sperm quality and enhances libido.

Are black beans good for pregnant and lactating women?

For pregnant women, eating beans is of great benefit. It can cause harm due to overeating and personal intolerance to the product. Because of the minerals and vitamins it contains, beans are beneficial not only for expectant mothers, but also for the fetus. The benefits of bean treats for pregnant women are as follows:

  • fiber removes toxic substances from the intestines;
  • helps cope with the constant feeling of hunger;
  • thanks to folic acid replaces vitamin preparations containing it;
  • the culture is saturated with iron, which prevents anemia;
  • calcium and potassium in beans contribute to better formation of the heart and bone tissue of the fetus;
  • contains magnesium, the property of which is to strengthen the nervous system;
  • iodine and zinc promote physical, emotional and mental development.

The benefits of nutritious beans are believed to increase lactation. Therefore, it is recommended for nursing mothers to increase the amount of milk in milk. useful vitamins. But you need to carefully introduce the fruits into food, as there is a possibility of harming the baby’s bloating and colic. The beneficial elements and salts that make up the vegetable also contribute to the overall strengthening of the young mother’s body.

The benefits of black beans for losing weight

Can you eat black beans if you have diabetes?

One of the beneficial qualities of black fruits is their ability to normalize blood glucose levels. Therefore, it is recommended to be taken in food for diabetes mellitus. A nutrients and vitamins strengthen the body as a whole, which helps it resist various diseases.

The use of black beans in folk medicine

Thanks to healing properties black beans are used in alternative medicine to prepare infusions and decoctions folk recipes. They are prepared for treatment diabetes mellitus, removing kidney stones and Bladder, excess fluid from the body.

Several recipes based on black beans:

  1. The first infusion is drunk for diabetes. To prepare it, you need to grind the beans to a powder state. Dissolve 50 g of the resulting powder in 400 ml boiled water. Pour the mixture into a thermos and leave for 12 hours. Drink half a glass of infusion before meals. This drink will help improve your overall health.
  2. To prepare another infusion, grind 2 tbsp to a powder. l. bean wings and pour 600 ml of cold water. Leave for 7 hours, filter. Drink 200 ml throughout the day.
  3. To prepare bean broth, take 1 kg of beans and 3 liters of water. Add the crushed grains of the crop to the water and cook for half an hour. Filter and let cool. Drink a glass of decoction a day on an empty stomach. Course - 30 days.

Black beans in cooking

Black beans are widely used in preparing various dishes. It is especially popular in Latin American cuisine. Prepare it yourself or add it to salads, soups, sauces.

How to cook black beans

Before cooking the beans, they must be soaked and left for 8 hours. Then drain the water, place the beans in a colander and rinse thoroughly running water. Pour into a saucepan, add water and simmer for 2 hours over low heat until soft.

What can you cook with black beans?

Black beans are well seasoned with onions, garlic, pepper and other spices. They go great with vegetables. Beans are added in the preparation of pates, pasta, borscht, vegetable stews, sauces for seasoning fish, and soups. It is also added to vegetarian cutlets, vegetable pancakes and baked goods. In Guatemala, beans are made into a sweet treat by coating the beans in chocolate.

How to use black beans in cosmetology

In cosmetology, the bean product received attention due to its rejuvenating properties. Masks are made from it to nourish the skin. nutrients, moisturize and improve its condition.

To prepare a mask that benefits the skin, you need to boil some beans. Then grind it to make a paste. Add olive oil and lemon juice, mix well. Apply the resulting composition to cleansed skin and leave for 20 minutes, then rinse warm water. Use the mask once a week. Thanks to its antibacterial properties, it prevents and reduces skin rashes.

Harm of black beans and contraindications

There are enough beneficial properties of black beans, but they can also cause harm if consumed in large quantities and incorrectly. Its beans are difficult to digest, so they should be excluded from their diet for people who have intestinal colic, gastritis, or ulcers. You should not eat beans if you have gout and increased acidity stomach. Individual intolerance is also the reason for the need to stop using them.

How to choose black beans when purchasing

When choosing a product during purchase, it is important to pay attention to the production date and expiration date. Dry beans must be whole and undamaged. They should not contain cracks or traces of insects. It is important that the packaging is stored in a dry place and not exposed to moisture. The bean grains in it should not stick together.

When purchasing canned beans, you should first check the ingredients listed on the can. It is important that its contents consist only of beans, water, salt and sugar. High-quality fruits must be whole. The brine should not be cloudy.

Storing black beans at home

To prepare a vegetable for storage with maximum preservation of its properties, it is necessary to dry it well and remove damaged and dried out beans. Pour them into jars or fabric bags and place them in a cool, dark place where the air temperature does not rise above +10 degrees and the humidity is kept at 50%. Bean grains can be stored in this way for two years. If you heat them in the oven at a temperature of 90 o C and place them in hermetically sealed jars, the shelf life can last up to five years.

Conclusion

The benefits and harms of black beans are important points, which you need to know about when starting to introduce it into your diet. The product is undoubtedly endowed with a lot of useful, healing properties, so it can be taken by adults and children. But it's worth remembering possible harm, which can be caused by individual elements that make up the treat and not be abused.

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Tuesday, December 24, 2013 13:00 + to quote book

There are about 75 types of beans in the world, varying in color, size, and origin. Of all the variegated variety of beans, its black variety deserves special attention. About what makes this “scorching brunette” so attractive is this article with recipes:

1. Black bean puree, a la Hummus (gluten free)

2. Black bean soup with buckwheat (gluten free)

4. Mexican Black Bean Vegetarian Burger

The following black bean recipes are suitable for: vegetarian food, however, amateurs meat dishes can easily adapt Nos. 2, 3 and 4 to their taste by replacing half the specified amount of beans with minced boiled (stewed) chicken or turkey breasts. This choice of animal protein is considered best for the prevention of cardiovascular disease and colon cancer.

1. Black bean puree (a la Hummus)

Prepares quickly. Perfectly applied to diet bread, pita, lavash (try to choose, if possible, those made from whole grains).

And if you spread this paste on thin slices of whole grain bread, and put chopped tomatoes and corn kernels on top (you can from a jar), bell pepper and cilantro (whatever you have), sprinkle a little cheese on top, you get some semblance of Mexican pizza - “black bean pizza”.

Cooking time - 5 minutes

10 servings

Ingredients:

  • 1 tsp garlic powder or 1 large fresh clove, pressed through a press
  • 1 tsp onion powder or 2 tsp. freshly grated
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • 0.5 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin (cumin)
  • 0.5 tsp ground turmeric (ground turmeric)
  • juice of half a lemon (or to taste)
  • water - 2-3 tbsp. l.

Preparation:

Place the beans in a food processor. Add spices, lemon juice, water and grind to a puree. You can do without a food processor by mashing the beans with a potato masher or a fork.

Nutritional properties: for 1/10 of the recipe: Energy value - 59 cal, Fat content -0g, carbohydrates -10.6g, fiber - 4g, protein - 4g.

2. Black bean soup with buckwheat

Buckwheat plays a leading role in this soup. It takes no more than half an hour to prepare, but the taste and consistency in the end are not inferior to those that simmer on the stove for hours.

4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp. olive oil
  • 3/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 3/4 cup chopped red pepper (can be frozen)
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped (1 tbsp)
  • 1/4 cup buckwheat
  • 1 tsp dry chili powder
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (low salt)
  • 1.5 cups cooked black beans or 1 can canned, rinsed of salt under running water
  • 1 cup grated carrots
  • 1 cup corn kernels (I use frozen)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 2 tbsp. lime or lemon juice
  • salt, pepper or a mixture of salt-replacing herbs
  • Additionally - ½ cup chopped leafy vegetables (kale, spinach, broccolini - can be frozen)

Preparation:

1. Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and pepper and simmer for 5 minutes.

2. Add garlic, buckwheat, chili pepper and simmer for another 3 minutes. Pour in the broth, add cooked beans, carrots, corn, and bay leaves. Add 2 cups of water, spices, salt and/or salt-replacement herbs. Cover with a lid, bring to a boil and cook for 20 minutes or until the buckwheat is cooked.

3. Add leafy vegetables (if using) during the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. Bring to taste with lemon or lime juice.

Nutritional properties:

For 1 serving (1 glass): Energy value - 232 cal, Fat content - 5 g, saturated<1 г, углеводов 42г, холестерина 0г, протеина - 9 г, клетчатки 8г.

3. Shell pasta stuffed with black beans and spinach


Take my word for it. It is delicious!

4 servings

Ingredients:

  • Approximately 100 g of large pasta shells (if you can find whole grain ones, there will be more benefits.)
  • 1.5 cups cooked black beans or 1 can canned
  • 250 -300 g frozen chopped spinach
  • 150 g finely chopped tomatoes or tomato sauce (preferably unsalted)
  • 4 cloves finely chopped garlic
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1 - 1 ¼ cups spaghetti sauce (lightly salted)
  • Mozzarella or other easy-melting white cheese (4 tablespoons or to taste)

Preparation:

1. Boil the shells according to the instructions. Set aside for now.

2. Preheat oven to 175 degrees or 350 F.

3. Heat olive oil in a large frying pan and add garlic. Lightly fry.

4. Add chopped tomatoes (or tomato sauce), simmer for another 5 minutes.

5. Thaw spinach, squeeze out excess water. Rinse canned beans under running water to remove excess salt and preservatives.

6. Place spinach and beans in a frying pan with tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes.

7. Using a potato masher, mash the beans in the pan.

8. Spoon spaghetti sauce evenly into a baking dish, reserving ¼ cup.

9. Stuff the shells with the vegetable mixture and place them in a baking dish.

10. Pour the remaining tomato sauce on top and sprinkle with cheese.

11. Bake for 15 - 20 minutes or until the cheese is lightly golden brown.

This dish can also be prepared in the microwave. Mode - 3 minutes at 100% power, then 7 minutes at 70%.

Nutritional properties: For 1 serving (310g): Energy value - 357 cal, fat content - 9g (14%), saturated 4g (18%), cholesterol - 30mg, carbohydrates - 50g, fiber - 11g (45%), protein - 20g, vitamin A 197%, C - 19%, calcium 36%, iron -25%.

The percentage is based on a 2000 cal daily intake.

4. Black Bean Vegetarian Burger
in Mexican

I personally first learned about the existence of bean cutlets in the late 80s, during the period of perestroika, when, due to the lack of meat in stores, workers had to experiment with other, less familiar sources of protein. At that time, I could not even imagine that bean cutlets could be so tasty (and different). In the recipe below they go well with cabbage