The question I am asked most often is, How can I be healthier? If someone isn’t on a diet that restricts beans + legumes, I always suggest making a big pot of black beans for the week. Having already cooked beans in the freezer or refrigerator means you are only a few minutes away from a super healthy meal. This practice has saved me time and time again on a school night when I didn’t have time to prepare something for dinner during the day.
Besides being full of nutrients + fiber, beans are calming, strengthening, satisfying and nourishing. Beans positively affect the body + mind and they are easily transformed into a multitude of yummy meals. From a bowl of creamy black bean soup, to black bean tacos or burgers for main entrees to steaming bowl of black beans + brown rice as a side or pureed with Southwestern spices as a dip. And, don’t forget black beans can totally round out a salad, increasing the protein and satiety value.
Always, always rinse and soak your black beans for a minimum of 8-12 hours before you even think of cooking them. I don’t recommend the quick soaking method….I feel it takes time for beans to release their naturally occurring phytic acid. And, you want to want to ensure that has had ample time to occur so your body will be able to absorb all of the nutrients contained within the beans.