If you’re a fan of Korean dramas, you might have noticed that the actors rarely eat plain white rice. Instead, they often add one or more types of grains to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of their daily meal.
Today, we’ll share a simple yet delicious and nutritious way to cook rice, especially beneficial for everyone, from the elderly to children. The secret ingredient is black beans.
Why choose black beans to cook with rice?
Black beans are rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals like iron and potassium, while being cholesterol-free. They are an excellent choice for those pursuing a healthy lifestyle and needing a stable energy source.
The high anthocyanin content in black beans helps prevent and slow down cell aging, improves blood circulation, and supports cardiovascular health. Additionally, the fiber in black beans aids in blood sugar control, making them an ideal option for diabetics.
Black beans are nutrient-rich and offer various health benefits. (Illustrative image)
Cooking rice with black beans not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a unique and delightful flavor. The cooked beans have an appealing color, creating a beautiful contrast with the plain white rice. Especially during hot summer days, black bean rice is a smart choice as black beans have a cooling effect, helping the body to dissipate heat and strengthen immunity.
How to Cook Black Bean Rice
Preparing black bean rice doesn’t require complicated steps. Start by choosing dry black beans and soaking them in cold water for about 2 hours to soften the beans, ensuring they cook evenly with the rice. After soaking, rinse the beans and mix them with white or brown rice, depending on your preference and nutritional needs.
Soaking black beans for a few hours is essential before cooking them with rice. (Illustrative image)
The amount of water used for cooking black bean rice is similar to that of regular rice. Some people add a pinch of salt or oil to enhance the flavor. If you want to boost the aroma, consider adding a few pandan or screw pine leaves to the rice cooker before cooking. This simple trick can make a significant difference in taste.
It’s important to remember that black beans take longer to cook than rice, so adjusting the soaking and cooking times is necessary to avoid overcooking the rice or undercooking the beans. Some people even use industrial rice cookers to achieve the best results, especially when preparing large quantities.
Besides the traditional way of cooking black bean rice, there are also variations to explore. One such method is preparing Korean-style black bean rice, known as “Ogokpab.” It combines sticky rice, black beans, African millet, and red beans, creating a dish with complex flavors and a colorful appearance.
Black bean rice is tasty, nutritious, and perfect for cooling down during the summer. (Illustrative image)
In addition to the evident health benefits, black bean rice also contributes to healthy skin and a slim figure. In a world where people strive for a balance between delicious food and healthy eating, black bean rice is the perfect solution. So, include this dish in your daily menu to improve your health from within.
According to ĐSPL
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