How to Make Perfect Black Beans: A Step-by-Step Guide

Black beans are a staple in many Latin American cuisines and have become popular all around the world due to their versatility, nutrition, and delicious taste. Whether you're looking to make a hearty soup, a tasty dip, or a filling side dish, black beans can be your perfect choice. Here is a step-by-step guide to making delicious black beans from scratch, perfect for ten servings.

Preparation and Soaking

Before you start cooking the black beans, you need to soak them overnight in water. Soaking the beans helps to soften them and reduce the cooking time. Rinse the beans and add them to a large pot with three liters of water. Add ten cloves of peeled garlic, 50 grams of quartered onions, and 150 milliliters of oil. You can use any oil of your choice, but traditionally, lard is used for its flavor.

Cooking

Once you have all the ingredients in the pot, cover it and bring the water to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the beans simmer for about 2 to 3 hours or until they are tender. Stir occasionally and add more boiling water if the beans are not fully submerged.

Once the beans are cooked, take them off the heat and separate the beans from the broth. Mash the beans along with the garlic and onion using a potato masher or a blender until they are smooth. You can add a bit of broth to make the mashing process easier.

Frying

Heat 100 grams of finely chopped onion in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mashed beans, season with salt to taste, and cook for about 10 minutes or until the mixture thickens and has a creamy texture. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Final Touches

Once the beans are cooked, add three sprigs of epazote to the pot, which will give the beans a unique flavor and aroma. You can find epazote in most Latin American grocery stores or online. Let the beans simmer for an additional 10 minutes so that the flavors meld.

Serving

Black beans are typically served with tortillas, and you can add chopped onion and green chili according to your preference. Black beans are also an excellent source of protein and fiber, making them a healthy addition to your diet.

Black Beans Recipe

(10 servings)

Ingredients:

• 1 kilogram of black beans
• 3 liters of water
• 10 cloves of garlic
• 50 grams of onions cut in quarters
• 100 grams of finely chopped onion
• 150 milliliters of oil
• 3 sprigs of epazote
• Grain salt, to taste

Instructions:

The beans are soaked one day before and the water is removed. In the hot water add the beans, the onion quarters, the garlic cloves, and the oil; cover and let them cook (if the water is not enough during the cooking, more water can be added, but always boiling water). Once cooked, they are stewed.

The pure beans are extracted, without broth, and they are crushed with the garlic and the onion; the salt is put to him; they are left to fry a little and, later, they are returned to the pot, so that they continue boiling. Finally, add the epazote sprigs and they are ready to eat. They are served with tortillas, and you can add chopped onion and green chili, chopped to taste.

Health Benefits of Black Beans

• Black beans are a good source of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, and it can also help you feel full and satisfied after eating.
• Black beans are a good source of fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health, and it can also help you feel full and satisfied after eating.
• Black beans are a good source of iron. Iron is essential for carrying oxygen throughout the body, and it can also help prevent anemia.
• Black beans are a good source of folate. Folate is essential for pregnant women, as it can help prevent birth defects.
• Black beans are a good source of magnesium. Magnesium is essential for muscle function, and it can also help regulate blood sugar levels.
• Black beans are a good source of potassium. Potassium is essential for heart health, and it can also help regulate blood pressure.

Conclusion

Making perfect black beans from scratch is easier than you might think. All you need is a little patience and a few ingredients, and you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal. Whether you're cooking for yourself or a large group, black beans are a versatile and affordable option that will satisfy everyone's taste buds. So next time you're looking for a healthy and tasty dish, give black beans a try!