Chef Marco Aurélio Sena teaches the tricks for preparing the beloved little black dress, a strong dish of Brazilian cuisine
Before the pan is even heated, the preparation of black beans begins with a careful selection of beans. Like a jeweler choosing precious stones, the chef examines each small vegetable, ensuring that only the best is part of the alchemy.
In a ritual that mixes patience and dedication, the beans rest in a basin, bathed in cool water as they absorb moisture.
The next act of this culinary game is the meeting between the beans and the pan. And it is precisely in this part that things can go wrong for the cook. Questions about seasoning and cooking time concern many fans of feijoada and other black bean recipes.
But since Paladar does not disappoint and teaches you to prepare the most diverse ingredients, we invited chef Marco Aurélio Sena, from Tantin Bar, to talk more in depth about the classic black beans. Stay until the end and find out everything about this icon of Brazilian gastronomy.
What are the secrets to making perfect black beans?
“The preparation of black beans begins with good hygiene, so wash them with plenty of running water. Then leave them to soak for eight to twelve hours. Halfway through this period, change the water to eliminate toxins. Cook the beans only with water, bay leaves and seasonings.At the end of cooking, add salt to prevent the grain from falling apart in the pan.
Is there a specific technique for choosing and preparing black beans before cooking?
“Choose to buy reputable brands that offer good quality products. If possible, choose organic beans. In general, the preparation of black beans is similar to that of carioca beans. It is important to ensure that the beans you select are whole, then discard any kernels broken or punctured.When soaking, also discard any floating grains.
What is the ideal ratio of water to black beans, and how do you ensure they are cooked to the right consistency?
“The ideal amount of water for black beans can vary slightly, but a good ratio is about three to four cups of water for every cup of black beans. To achieve proper cooking, pay attention to the time spent in the pressure cooker , which should be about 15 minutes.Wait for all the pressure to release before opening the lid, and if the beans are still a little tough, add the seasonings and let them cook uncovered for a few minutes.
What spices and herbs do you recommend to enhance the flavor of black beans when cooking?
“To season black beans, the classic duo of garlic and onion cannot be missing, but adding some vegetables during cooking can also be very interesting. Beets, carrots and pumpkin are perfect for making the beans even more nutritious and giving them a beautiful colour” even when it’s ready. A seasoning that I really like is paprika. It can be sweet, which has a more delicate flavour, or smoked, for those who love an extra flavor and don’t eat meat. Another essential seasoning is paprika leaf. leaf, which has a delicious scent and releases its flavor when cooking the beans.
Are there any special tips for speeding up the cooking process of black beans without compromising the flavor?
“A valuable tip is to leave the beans to soak for at least twelve hours. This way the beans become softer and this reduces cooking times. During the process it is important to change the water at least once.”
How to prevent black beans from becoming too soft or too hard?
“The proportion of water entering the pressure cooker must be correct, so that the beans are neither too soft nor too hard. Another golden tip is not to add salt before cooking, as this could damage the structure of the bean. and it will become very soft.”
What side dishes do you suggest serving with black beans?
“Black beans are very rich in flavor, so it’s best not to take away their luster on the plate. The jerky goes very well with vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots and squash, whether steamed or sautéed with onions. Cabbage black and farofa add flavor and crunch to the dish and goes well with the beans.”
Any suggestions for a creative recipe that highlights black beans in a special way?
“Black beans are often used in feijoada, but they can also be made into black bean cakes, much like rice cakes, which are a great appetizer. You can make a salad with kidney beans, green beans, avocado, and red onion, and chili pepper, as well as tropeiro beans, which are also very traditional.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
