Black Beans

These are whole soy beans preserved in salt and ginger. When combined with other ingredients, black beans give a delicious, slightly salty flavour to a dish. The dried ones are best and they can be stored for months in a cool, dry place. It is also possible to buy black beans canned in brine – rinse them before use. Transfer any unused canned beans and liquid to a screw-topped jar and keep in the refrigerator – they will keep for ages in this way.