RECIPESPRODUCTSPANTRYSHOPPING

Black Beans

Black beans, also known as turtle beans, are small, dark legumes commonly used in various Latin American, Caribbean, and Mediterranean cuisines. They are prized for their dense, meaty texture and earthy flavor, making them popular in numerous dishes, including rice, soups, stews, and salads. Rich in dietary fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals, black beans are a healthy and versatile ingredient that can be easily incorporated into a balanced diet. When cooking with black beans, they can be purchased in canned or dried form. Dry beans should be soaked before cooking to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. Canned beans are ready to use, but it is recommended to rinse and drain them before incorporating them into a recipe. Black beans can be prepared in a variety of ways, from boiling and sautéing to mashing and blending, making them an excellent addition to numerous dishes.
#1
IN BEANS & LEGUMES
341
CAL / 100G
$0.05
AVG / OZ
black beans
73%
CARBS
2%
FAT
25%
PROTEIN
Black Beans FAQ
When cooking with black beans, some of the most common questions involve how to prepare the beans, whether to use canned or dried beans, and how to maximize flavor. A major error many cooks make is failing to properly soak dried beans before cooking them, leading to excessively long cooking times and potentially hard or undercooked results. Another common mistake is not thoroughly rinsing canned beans, which can leave a metallic taste or excess sodium in your dishes. One way to get the most from black beans is to cook them with aromatics such as onions, garlic, and bay leaves to enhance their flavor. It's also beneficial to season them towards the end of cooking to prevent the salt from toughening the beans. If you're using canned beans and are concerned about sodium, choose a low-sodium or no-salt-added option. A lesser-known trick is to save the liquid that the beans are cooked in, often called aquafaba. This liquid can be used as a vegan egg substitute, a base for soups, or an interesting addition to cocktails. Using aquafaba can help reduce waste and make your cooking even more versatile.
Why are dried beans sometimes hard after cooking?
Do I need to cook canned black beans?
What's the difference between canned and dried black beans?
How should you rinse canned black beans?
How long should dried beans be soaked before cooking?
What should you cook with black beans to enhance their flavor?
When should you season black beans?
Can I use the liquid from canned black beans?
Do I need to rinse black beans from a can?
What's the nutritional content of black beans?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does black beans expire?
Unopened canned black beans generally last about 2-5 years past the printed date on the can. However, to enjoy optimal texture and flavor, try to consume them within a year. Once opened, canned beans can last up to 4 days in the fridge, so remember to refrigerate them in a sealed container shortly after opening. Dried black beans, on the other hand, have an indefinite shelf life, but are best used within 2-3 years for maximum quality. If you freeze cooked black beans, they can last up to 6 months.
How do you tell if black beans is bad?
Spoiled black beans will have a foul smell, and canned beans can develop a tinted can which indicates gas production by bacterial activity. The beans may appear mouldy or slimy, and may have a sour taste. If the beans appear to be sprouting, they have absorbed moisture and should not be consumed.
Tips for storing black beans to extend shelf life
• Store canned black beans in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight. • Once opened, transfer any unused portion to a sealed container and refrigerate. Use within 4 days. • Store uncooked dried black beans in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Regularly check for moisture or insect activity. • Cooked black beans can be frozen. Cool them completely before freezing, and store in airtight bags or containers. Use a container that fits the beans snugly to minimize air exposure. To defrost, leave the beans in the refrigerator overnight. If in a hurry, you could use the defrost function on your microwave.
EXPIRES WITHIN
19 - 29
MONTHS
Health Info
Macros
53g
CARBS
1g
FAT
18g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
Recipes with what you have
Download Cooklist
Get the app to track inventory, save recipes, build meal plans and order groceries from local stores.
Scan to download
QR Code