Recipe: Easy black beans

Black beans are a staple in my cupboard! Packed with protein, fibre, and essential vitamins and minerals, they are not only delicious but also incredibly good for you. This recipe is really simple so great for an easy weeknight meal and it keeps well for lunch the next day too.

Worried about gas?

Beans are high in resistant starch which is like fibre - it moves through the digestive tract to the large intestine where it is fermented by the bacteria there. This gut fermentation process produces gases as a byproduct, which is why eating lots of beans can make you gassy - but if it’s not too uncomfortable, this is a good thing! The fermentation process produces short-chain fatty acids, which are really beneficial for our health - most notably they help regulate our immune system, reduce inflammation, and play a role in gut-brain communication. They have even been proposed to have a role in treatment for diseases such as depression, Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's (PD) (although the evidence to support this isn’t quite there yet).

Why I love this recipe

1. Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

2. Versatile: Feel free to customise this recipe with your favourite ingredients. Add in some diced tomatoes, jalapeños for heat, or top with salsa and guac.

3. Nutritious: Black beans are a powerhouse of nutrition, providing a healthy dose of protein, fibre, and essential nutrients.

4. Flavorful: With a combination of spices and fresh ingredients, this black bean recipe will satisfy your taste buds.

5. Budget-Friendly: Made with simple and affordable ingredients, this recipe is not only delicious but also budget-friendly, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead.