Turtle beans, also known as black beans, are small, sweet beans with black skin and light-colored flesh. They are commonly used in Mexican and Latin American cuisine and can be prepared fresh or dried. They are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, including chili, pasta sauce, and casseroles.
Also known as black-seeded beans or simply black beans, turtle beans are beans that are distinguished by their black skin over a light tan or cream-colored flesh. Turtle beans tend to be slightly smaller than other types of beans and offer a slightly sweet flavor to any recipe that calls for the inclusion of beans. Originally from South America, the beans are now grown in different parts of Mexico and the Caribbean and are often included in many different Mexican and Latin American recipes.
There is some difference of opinion as to what constitutes true turtle beans. Some feel that any type of bean with black skin can rightfully be called a turtle bean. Others argue that there are several varieties of black beans, with the tortoiseshell seeds slightly smaller and slightly sweeter than the others. A different school of thought holds that only black beans that are dried and stored for later use truly qualify as a type of turtle bean, while others believe that as long as the bean has a black skin and light colored flesh, it does not it matters whether the beans are fresh, canned, or dried.
Beans tend to retain the most flavor when prepared fresh or when dried beans are used. When using the dry kind, many country cooks recommend placing the beans in a large bowl and covering them completely with water. The beans should be soaked overnight for the best consistency results.
Before cooking turtle grains, they must be thoroughly drained and rinsed in a colander. Once the beans are ready to cook, they should be placed in a pot. There are several ways to season beans, including using a small amount of salt and a little olive oil. For people who prefer the taste of meat in their beans, adding a small amount of ham is usually enough to provide the ideal amount of seasoning.
There are many different ways to serve prepared beans. One approach is to serve cooked turtle beans over a bed of fried or white rice. The beans can also be used in making homemade chili or as one of the ingredients to make a sauce for various types of pasta. You can also use cooked beans in a variety of casseroles and soups, making it easy to use up cooked beans that may have been left over from previous meals.
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