KUROMAME

Sweet black beans for New Year

PREPARATION TIME: 8 hours

COOKING TIME: 2 - 4 hours

INGREDIENTS

1 cup Dried black beans, washed and picked over

4 cups water

1 cup Brown sugar

3 tbsp Soy sauce

1/2 tsp Baking powder

1/2 tsp Salt

1 iron cooking aid*

* Ours is an iron eggplant that is added to help keep the beans black and shiny.  If you don't have one you can use a rusty nail wrapped in muslin or leave it out altogether.

METHOD

Add the beans and the water to a large pan. Cover and allow to soak and expand overnight

Alternative speedy version:

In a large pan add all the ingredients except the beans and bring to a boil. Turn off the heat, add the beans, cover and leave for 2 to 3 hours.

Pressure cooker version

Combine all the ingredients in a pressure cooker and stir to dissolve the sugar. Seal the lid and cook at pressure for 20 to 30 mins depending on how soft you like your beans.  Allow to cool for 10 to 15 mins before releasing the  pressure and removing the lid.

Regular pan version:

Combine all ingredients in a large pan and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat to simmer. Keep covered, stir occasionally and skim off any foam. Add water if necessary. Cook for 2 - 4 hours or until beans are tender and sweet.

Store in a sealed container in the fridge.