Black Soybeans (Hei Dou) | (100g)

About

Black soybeans, also known as Hei Dou, are a traditional ingredient valued for their deep, earthy flavour.

With their distinctive dark outer skin, these soybeans have been appreciated for generations as part of balanced eating habits.

Whether enjoyed in meals or as a daily supplement, they offer a simple way to embrace time-honoured nourishment and mindful living.

Potential Benefits

Nourishment: Black soybeans naturally contain plant protein, dietary fibre, folate, vitamin K, iron, magnesium and potassium.

Traditional Use: Hei Dou is valued in Chinese food tradition as one of the dark-coloured foods, and is commonly cooked into soups and congee.

Balance: Black soybeans are often enjoyed as part of balanced, varied meals.

Natural Compounds: Black soybeans naturally contain isoflavones, as well as minerals such as calcium and phosphorus.

Versatile: A source of plant protein and fibre, black soybeans work in soups, salads, stir-fries and dips.

Recommended Dosage

We recommend around 10g per portion.

Here are some suggestions on how to use black soybeans:

Cooked beans: The most straightforward way to use black soybeans is to cook them as you would any other legume. Soak the beans overnight, rinse them, and then cook them in water or broth until tender. The cooked black soybeans can be used in soups, stews, chili, or as a side dish.

Salads: Add cooked and cooled black soybeans to salads for extra protein and texture. They can be tossed with mixed greens, vegetables, and dressing to create a nutritious and satisfying salad.

Stir-fries: Include black soybeans in stir-fry dishes along with vegetables, tofu, and sauces. They can add a nutty flavor and additional protein to the stir-fry.

Dips & Spreads: Puree cooked black soybeans with garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and spices to create a delicious bean dip or spread. Use it as a dip for vegetables or as a spread on bread or crackers.

Burgers: Mash cooked black soybeans and combine them with breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices to make vegetarian or vegan burgers or patties. They can be pan-fried or baked for a tasty and nutritious alternative.

Desserts: Black soybeans can even be used in desserts. Puree cooked black soybeans and use them in recipes for cakes, brownies, or cookies. They can add moisture, texture, and a touch of nuttiness to your sweet treats.

Remember to soak and cook black soybeans thoroughly before consuming them to ensure they are fully cooked and softened. Adjust cooking times and methods based on your recipe and preferences.

Other Beans and Pulses

Black soybeans are one of several traditional Chinese beans and pulses we stock. Each has its own character and use:

• Soya Beans (Huang Dou) | 100g the yellow soybean, milder and more commonly used in everyday cooking
• Red Adzuki Beans (Hong Dou) | 100g sweeter and smaller, traditionally cooked down into red bean paste
• Mung Beans (Lu Dou) | 100g green and quick-cooking, used in soups and sweet porridges

What to Use Them With

Hei Dou belongs to the group of dark-coloured foods traditionally used together in Chinese cooking. Its closest companion is black sesame seeds (Hei Zhi Ma), and the two are often combined in the same dish.

Browse the full range in our Herbs & Spices collection.

Why Choose Vita?

Every herb we sell at Vita Herbal Nutrition is non-sulphur treated and chosen for use in the kitchen and in traditional preparation.

We are proud to offer a 100% sulphur-free herb selection. While some companies use sulphur to enhance the appearance and shelf life of herbs, it can change the herb’s natural composition and may cause allergic reactions in some people. You can read more on our non-sulphur treated herbs page.

We follow the DaoDi principle of choosing each herb from the area traditionally associated with it, and we have worked with the same supply partners since 2010.

FAQ

What are black soybeans (Hei Dou)?
Hei Dou, or black soybeans, are a variety of soybean with a dark outer skin, traditionally used in food and wellness practices for their natural properties.

How can black soybeans be included in daily routines?
They can be cooked into soups, blended into drinks, or taken as a supplement, making them a versatile choice for balanced potential nourishment.

How do black soybeans fit into a varied diet?
Black soybeans have long been enjoyed as part of a varied diet, complementing mindful eating habits and potentially supporting overall dietary balance.

What is the difference between Hei Dou and Huang Dou?
Hei Dou are black soybeans, with a dark skin and a deeper, earthier flavour. Huang Dou are yellow soybeans, milder in taste and more widely used in everyday cooking.