Nutrient-Rich Sweet and Savory Black Bean Side Dish with Pumpkin Seeds
【Super Simple Side Dish】Ready in 20 Minutes! Nutrient-Rich Sweet and Savory Black Bean Side Dish with Pumpkin Seeds
As the weather cools, I always start thinking about making classic side dishes like ‘kongjaban’ (braised black beans). This time, I’ve added pumpkin seeds and black sesame seeds to make it extra nutritious and flavorful. Even though I don’t usually eat much ‘kongjaban’, I absolutely loved this version! It’s a healthy and simple side dish that both kids and adults will enjoy. Make this ‘kongjaban’ with pumpkin seeds as a reliable and delicious addition to your meals. Have a bright day today! ♡
Main Ingredients- 2.5 cups black beans (approx. 250g)
- 1 handful pumpkin seeds (approx. 30g)
- 2 cups water (400ml)
Braising Sauce- 1/3 cup soy sauce (approx. 67ml)
- 3 Tbsp sugar (approx. 45g)
- 1 Tbsp honey or corn syrup (approx. 15ml)
- Black sesame seeds (a pinch)
- Toasted sesame seeds (a pinch)
- 1/3 cup soy sauce (approx. 67ml)
- 3 Tbsp sugar (approx. 45g)
- 1 Tbsp honey or corn syrup (approx. 15ml)
- Black sesame seeds (a pinch)
- Toasted sesame seeds (a pinch)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, rinse the 2.5 cups of black beans thoroughly under running water to remove any impurities. Place the rinsed beans in a large bowl and add about 4 cups of cold water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until they are sufficiently plump and softened.
Step 2
Transfer the soaked black beans and 2 cups (400ml) of water to a wide wok or pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the beans from sticking to the bottom of the pot as it heats up.
Step 3
Once the water starts boiling vigorously, reduce the heat to medium. Continue to simmer the beans for about 10 more minutes until they begin to soften. Now, add the braising sauce ingredients in order: 1/3 cup soy sauce (approx. 67ml), 3 Tbsp sugar (approx. 45g), and 1 Tbsp honey or corn syrup (approx. 15ml). Stir well to combine the sweet and savory flavors with the beans.
Step 4
When the beans are almost cooked and tender, add the handful of pumpkin seeds (approx. 30g). Continue to simmer over medium-low heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has reduced and thickened slightly. Simmering on low heat ensures the beans don’t burn and the sauce coats them evenly. Finally, sprinkle in some black sesame seeds and toasted sesame seeds to your liking and mix gently. Taste and adjust seasoning with more soy sauce or sugar if needed.
Step 5
Once the pumpkin seed ‘kongjaban’ is perfectly braised and delicious, remove it from the heat. Transfer the side dish to a serving bowl. It’s delightful when served warm, but the flavors deepen even further when cooled and stored in the refrigerator. Enjoy this perfect side dish with your rice!
