Wednesday, March 08, 2006

RECIPE ~ A mean Black Bean Dip


Although patio season is not quite here yet, there's no harm in having summer party fare in early spring, is there? I made this dip last night for a lovely dinner party with friends, along with rosemary focaccia, olives and hickory almonds.

1 can black beans*
2 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsp lemon juice
2 Tbsp Bragg's
2 Tbsp water
3 cloves garlic, chopped*
1 Tbsp sesame seeds or tahini*
herbs & spices: I used 1/4 tsp each of ground cumin, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, marjoram & basil
create whatever flavour combos you like! Other flavour ideas: 2 Tbsp fresh chopped cilantro or parsley; 2 tsp toasted sesame oil; 1/4 tsp ground coriander; 1/4 tsp dried parsley
garnish: drizzle of olive oil, sprig of parsley, and/or chopped green onion


Drain the can of black beans in a colander and rinse well. Place all ingredients except garnish in a food processor and blend until smooth. Scrape into a serving bowl and garnish to your heart's delight. Serve with baked tortilla chips.

* FOR INDIVIDUAL DOSHAS
KAPHAS omit sesame seeds/tahini
PITTAS reduce garlic to 1 clove
VATAS use canned aduki or soy beans

DID YOU KNOW?
Beans are astringent, which means they have a puckering effect on the mouth. They are hence drying and have a sponge-like effect on your digestion, absorbing toxins and excess fluids. Beans are great for Kaphas in controlling weight, fine for Pittas, but too drying for Vatas who should stick to small amounts of soft lentils and soy products. Unless you're a Fata like me in which case following a Kapha diet will help with weight loss.

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

I don't know if you'll see this comment, but what is Bragg's??

Your site is very helpful. Thanks.

Claudia Davila (Fran) said...

I'm glad you're enjoying it, thanks!

Bragg's is a honey-coloured dressing that is like a light soy sauce or tamari, but is made in such a way that it contains no wheat or alcohol and is a great salt substitute for cooking. Health food stores in north america should carry it, but if you can't find it, substitute sea salt to taste.

Here is the producer's web site.

Anonymous said...

I was wondering which Braggs product you are using in this recipe. The amino acids?

Claudia Davila (Fran) said...

Yes, Bragg Liquid Aminos, this one!

Laura said...

Love your blog. Just opened a can of beans, was thinking of a dip and accidentally found this. Thank you! Looks perfect for this sunny, wintry day.