Kuro-mame: Sweet Soy-Glazed Black Beans

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200g) black beans 1 cup (200g) black beans
• 4 cups (950ml) water 4 cups (950ml) water
• 1/2 cup (120ml) soy sauce 1/2 cup (120ml) soy sauce
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 1g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 48g, 30g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the black beans under cold water and remove any debris.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, combine the black beans and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. 3.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer the beans for 5 minutes. Drain and discard the water.
4. 4.
   In the same pot, combine the soy sauce, sugar, and grated ginger. Stir until the sugar has dissolved.
5. 5.
   Add the black beans back to the pot and bring to a simmer over medium-low heat.
6. 6.
   Cover the pot and cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened.
7. 7.
   Remove from heat and let the beans cool in the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
8. 8.
   Serve the Kuro-mame in small bowls, garnished with sesame seeds.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Black beans — Soaking the black beans overnight before cooking can help reduce the cooking time.
• Soy sauce — Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer a less salty flavor.
• Ginger — Use fresh ginger for the best flavor. Grate it just before adding it to the sauce.

Tips & Tricks

• For a twist, add a splash of rice vinegar to the sauce for a tangy flavor.
• If you prefer a sweeter taste, increase the amount of sugar in the recipe.
• Leftover Kuro-mame can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Serve Kuro-mame as a topping for rice bowls or as a side dish with grilled meats.
• Experiment with different garnishes such as chopped green onions or a sprinkle of chili flakes.

Serving advice

Serve Kuro-mame as a part of a traditional Japanese New Year's feast or as a delightful snack throughout the year. Enjoy it alongside other festive dishes to experience the full range of flavors and textures.

Presentation advice

Arrange the glossy black beans in a small bowl, allowing the sauce to pool around them. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an added visual appeal. Serve the dish with a small spoon or chopsticks for easy enjoyment.