What are black beans??!!
The scientific name for black beans is Phaselous vulgaris. This kidney-shape bean is about the size of a pea, which may up to 1/2-inch long. They are also commonly referred to as turtle beans, probably in reference to their dark, shinny shell-like appearance. Black bean are very high in fiber, folate, protein, antioxidants, and vitamin B, along with numerous other vitamins and minerals. These beans date back at least 7,000 years, when they were a staple food in the diets of Central and South Americans. They were first domesticated over 7,000 years ago in the region of South America called Peru.
Growing and Harvest
Black beans grow readily in warm weather, the best at temperatures between 65 - 75 degrees F. They require up to 120 days to reach maturity and dry. The beans are left on the plants to dry. They are harvested by machine and the plants themselves left as green manure. In agriculture, a green manure is a type of cover crop grown primarily to add nutrients and organic matter to the soil.
Health Benefits
Black beans are a very good source of cholesterol-lowering fiber. In addition to lowering cholesterol, black beans' high fiber content prevents blood sugar levels from rising too rapidly after a meal, making these beans an especially good choice for individuals with diabetes, insulin resistance or hypoglycemia.
Best way to take black beans :
- Make it as a drink
- Black bean soup (click here for the recipe)
I love spicy black beans the best! never had it as a drink and that soup just looks fabulous!
ReplyDeleteHi Peggy, thanks for the comment. By the way, have you try on the soup before?? It is very nice.. :)
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