Black Beans (Frijoles Negros)
Until the 1990's, black beans were mostly found in interior Mexico, the Caribbean and certain sections of Austin. Nowadays
they are a lot more common, in part because they are significantly healthier than pinto beans, containing more fiber and calcium. Making a pot of black beans is simple, and
leads itself to dishes for the rest of the week.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried black beans
- 10 cups water
- One half of one white or purple onion
- 1 Bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon salt
Preparation:
- Wash black beans, cover with water and allow to soak overnight; rinse; drain; set aside.
- Pour soaked beans into a heavy stock pot and add enough water to cover beans by one to two inches.
- Add all ingredients except salt and bring to a boil over medium high heat.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender but not mushy.
- Add salt.
- Garnish with cilantro and sour cream.
- Makes 1 ½ quarts.
Note: A dollop of sour cream and a sprinkling of fresh minced cilantro is a nice garnish for this soup. Serve this with any kind of cornbread, such as Jalapeño Cornbread, and fresh tomatoes.
Ready in: 12 Hrs