Friday, July 24, 2009

Black Beans on a Hot Day


Another potluck in the park was held, and I made my Black Beans. Surprisingly, everyone who ate it asked for the recipe, so here it is! This is by far one of the simplest recipes you can make, and either you can make it by soaking the beans overnight or straight out of the can (because yes, sometimes bulk can be a little more expensive!) I have made this once when I was sick, twice for a couple hungry friends (Cat, who lovingly calls it "Bean juice soup"), and sometimes when I need a really quick lunch.

A key ingredient in this dish is Braggs Liquid Aminos. You need this in your pantry. It tastes salty (a natural occurance - there is no added sodium), and it goes well with everything. The downfall is that a 16 Fl. oz bottle will cost you around $5. However, it's a wonderful seasoning and it should last you a few months. Worth the investment if you ask me. You can get Braggs usually in the natural foods section, or at a local Co-Op.

The Simplest Black Beans Ever
2 Cans Black Beans (try to find ones without salt added)
4 T of Braggs Liquid Aminos
2 t garlic powder
1 t cayenne pepper
1 t sage (or a sprig of fresh sage)
2 bay leaves
freshly ground pepper

Bring beans (and their juices) and all seasonings to a boil, then let simmer for about 15 minutes. If you taste it towards the end, and it's not "salty" enough, don't go for the table salt, put in a dash or two more of the Braggs. Also, leave in the bay leaves.

Another thing I have tried was throwing in about a can and a half of water, and turning it into a soup. All you have to do is double up the seasonings. In the end, grate some pepper jack cheese over it.

I told you it was simple....

Cost: Black beans - anywhere from $.80 to $1.00 a can, Braggs - $5
Time from prep to mouth: 30 minutes
Tips: If you have a red bell pepper on hand, dice it up and toss in a 1/2 cup of it while it simmers.

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