Off the Shelf
Black beans enliven Chinese dishes

Fermented black beans add a pungent, salty note to stir-fried, braised and steamed dishes. Gregory Yamamoto • The Honolulu Advertiser

This is a very old Chinese seasoning, predating soy sauce. The beans are used to add a salty taste to stir-fried, braised and steamed dishes.

To use them, crush them with a cleaver or chop them lightly; black beans marry well with garlic, ginger and chilies. Rinsing is not necessary.

Black beans should feel soft but not dry; store in a covered container in the refrigerator.