Korean Braised Black Beans: A Nutritious and Delicious Side Dish

The Korean cuisine is renowned for its variety of side dishes, known as banchan, which are served alongside rice and main courses. Among these, braised black beans, or kongjaban, stand out as a nutritious and flavorful option. Not only do they offer a delightful taste, but they also provide significant health benefits.

Black beans are an excellent source of protein, making them a great addition to any meal, especially for those looking to increase their protein intake. They are also rich in essential nutrients that support hair growth and skin health. This makes braised black beans not just a treat for the palate but also a boon for your overall well-being.

The recipe for Korean braised black beans is straightforward and can be easily prepared at home. It requires a cup of dried black beans, preferably the Korean variety with green insides, which are known for their distinctive flavor and texture. The sauce for the beans is a simple yet delicious combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, mushroom seasoning, salt, minced garlic, and diced white onions. These ingredients create a savory and slightly sweet glaze that coats the beans perfectly.

For added gloss and a touch of sweetness, brown syrup or honey is incorporated towards the end of the cooking process. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives the beans an appetizing sheen.

The cooking method is adaptable; while an instant pot can significantly reduce the cooking time, the traditional stovetop method is equally effective. The key is to ensure the beans are well-cooked and have absorbed the flavors of the sauce. Once prepared, these braised black beans can be stored in the refrigerator and enjoyed over several days, making them a convenient and healthy option for busy individuals or families.

Incorporating Korean braised black beans into your diet is a delightful way to enjoy the rich flavors of the Korean cuisine while reaping the nutritional benefits. Whether as a side dish or as a snack, these beans are sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the harmony of taste and health with this easy-to-make, delicious Korean side dish.

Ingredients:

1 cup dried black beans (Korean black beans with green inside)

Sauce ingredients:

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp brown sugar

1 tsp mushroom seasoning

1/4 tsp salt

2 tsp garlic minced.

1/2 cup diced white onions.

Other ingredients:

1 tbsp brown syrup or honey.

Directions:

Wash the beans until the water is clear, and soak the dried beans overnight or for 8 hours.

I use the instant pot to cook the beans but you can use the pot to cook the beans on the stovetop for 30 minutes.

Add about 2 cups of water to the beans and place them into the instant pot. Turn to use the pressure cook for 7 minutes. Let it naturally release.

Check the beans for doneness and turn the instant pot to the broth function. Add the sauce ingredients and let cook until all the sauce is absorbed. Add the syrup at this point to make the beans shiny.

You can enjoy this side dish for several days if kept in the refrigerator.