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The Curious Bag
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The black bean is a pea-sized variant of the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) with a black skin and a white center. Black beans have long been a staple in Latin and South American cuisines.
Black turtle bean
The common black bean is often referred to as the "black turtle bean" to distinguish it from black-skinned varieties of other bean species, such as the soybean, mung bean and azuki bean.
Legumes
Like other varieties of the common bean, black beans are members of the legume family. Alfalfa, clover, peanuts, carob, and mesquite are some other legumes.
Flavor and texture
The taste of black beans is strong and sweet and is sometimes compared to the taste of mushrooms. Black beans have a smooth, dense texture making them well-suited for use in vegetarian dishes.
Nutritional benefits
When combined with rice, black beans provide an excellent source of fat-free protein. Black beans are also high in dietary fiber, antioxidants, vitamin B6 and the trace mineral, molybdenum.
Common uses
Aside from beans and rice, black beans can be found in a variety of traditional regional dishes including soups, chili, salads and stews. Black beans have also enjoyed popularity as a meat-substitute, especially pressed into hamburger-like patties.
Source:
World's Healthiest Foods: Black Beans
Mother Earth News: About Shell Beans
HealthMad: Five Health Benefits of Black Beans
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