Black Beans

Should be small, almost round beans with minimal split/broken pieces and shriveled beans, free from mould, moisture and infestation.

Black Turtle Beans are a common ingredient in soups, stews, sauces and in popular burrito.  The are said to be native to Mexico, perhaps the reason why they are so common in Latin American dishes.

From a nutrition perspective, they contain folate as well as being a good source of fibre for proper digestive function, iron (non-heme), phosphorus, complex carbohydrates and some calcium.  They have been shown to be a good source of natural antioxidants.

From a traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, black turtle beans have a warming thermal nature and are beneficial to the kidneys and builds blood.

NOTE: Before use all beans should be soaked in water overnight or for atleast ten hours.  Make sure you cover the beans with a large volume of water because they will swell up considerably.  When ready to cook, discard the soaking water and briefly rinse the beans under running water.  This process is important as to reduce burping, flatulence and abdominal discomfort.