In Mexico, Central America and South America, the
traditional spice to use with beans is epazote, which is also said to aid
digestion. Dry beans will keep indefinitely if stored in a cool, dry place, but
as time passes, their nutritive value and flavor degrade and cooking times
lengthen. The black turtle bean has a dense, meaty texture and flavor
reminiscent of mushrooms, which makes it popular in vegetarian dishes.
Reported health benefits:
Black turtle beans have recently been reported to be an extremely good source of nutritional antioxidants.
Information provided by USDA (100 grams = 3.5 ounces):