Black Beans

These small black soya beans have a distinctive salty taste and a pleasantly rich aroma and are often used as a seasoning, usually in conjunction with garlic, fresh ginger or chillies. They are preserved by being cooked and fermented with salt and spices, resulting in pungent soft black beans. Black beans are especially good in steamed, braised and stir-fried dishes, imparting a rich flavour to every dish. They should not be confused with the dried black beans used in Western cooking.

The beans will keep indefinitely if stored in the refrigerator or in some other cool place. Take the beans from the packet and transfer them to a clean covered jar. Store away from light and heat.