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Black Soybean, Dou Shi (Chinese)
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| Nearly spherical in shape. Black hull (seed coat), and yellow cotyledon (seed interior). Hull can be easily removed to expose the cotyledon. As is characteristic of soybeans, the hilum is long and thinner than on most other beans.
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Soybeans are bush beans. Usually, planting in early May will allow for the most yield success. Minimum soil temperature should be 55-60 degrees Fahrenheit. Warmer soils allow for better germination. Soybeans are generally hardy plants that can grow in a variety of soil types. Soybeans grow slower than most other beans and require warm weather to mature. Full maturity is reached in about 3-5 months.
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Soybeans were likely first domesticated in Northern China in the 11th century B.C. The plant spread throughout China and into parts of Korea probably by the first century A.D. By the 16th century, soybeans were grown throughout east Asia. Around this time, European travelers to Asia became exposed to the bean and the many dishes that were made from it. Soy sauce soon became a common trade item, but it wasn’t until the early 1700’s that the soybean was actually grown in Europe.
The soybean has been a staple in the Asian diet for many centuries. Similar to western traditions of New Year’s involving black-eyed peas, soybeans are an integral part of the celebration in Japan. On New Year’s Day in Japan, it is customary to enjoy a bowl of miso soup called o-zoni (miso is made from soybeans). Also important to the New Year’s traditions is a dish of sweetened black soybeans. In Japan, black soybeans are considered “the crown prince of all soybeans. |
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| According to Chinese food therapy practices, black soybeans have been said to promote good kidney and spleen health. They increase both blood circulation and water passage, counteract toxic effects, and can relieve kidney disease. |
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Soybeans are the only common plant food that contain complete protein. They also contain carbohydrates and fat, which together with complete protein represent the three macro-nutrients required for good nutrition. Soybeans also contain calcium, folic acid and iron. Soy protein’s amino acid profile is nearly equal to that of meat, milk, and eggs. Because soybeans are cholesterol-free and low in saturated fat, they are a healthier source of protein than some more common alternatives.
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Sweet Black Soybeans (from edenfoods.com)
Serves: 3
1 can (15 oz.) Black Soybeans, drained
1.5 Tbsp barley malt syrup
0.5 teaspoon soy sauce
Place all ingredients in small saucepan, and bring to boil, uncovered. Simmer 10 minutes or until most liquid has evaporated. Serve.
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| Willie Chandler
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http://www.nsrl.uiuc.edu/aboutsoy/
http://www.edenfoods.com/issues_goodfood_newyears.html
http://www.foodsnherbs.com/black_soybean.htm
http://www.ag.uiuc.edu/archives/experts/utilization/0088.html
http://www.wholeearthmag.com/ArticleBin/249.html
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