How to Prepare Black Turtle Beans

Black turtle beans are native to Mexico and are used broadly in Latin American, Caribbean, and Southwestern US cuisines. They are a member of the kidney bean family and grace such dishes as soups, enchiladas, burritos, and salads. Here is how to prepare them.

Steps

1
Pre-soak them.^{[1]
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Research source} This allows for much faster cooking times, as well as increasing the availability of minerals and improves their digestibility. Soak for 12 hours, or leave soaking overnight.^{[2]
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Trustworthy Source
Mayo Clinic
Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals
Go to source} Use four cups of water to one cup of beans.
2
Drain the soaked beans.

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3
Place the drained beans in a saucepan or pot with 3 cups of water.
4
Bring the black turtle beans to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and allow to simmer.^{[3]
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5
Simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until soft.^{[4]
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6
Use in a recipe as instructed.^{[5]
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Community Q&A

Question

Are black turtle beans the same thing as black beans?

Community Answer

They are very similar, except that black turtle beans tend to be smaller. They will essentially have the same taste and texture, however.
Question

The article doesn't say how many beans are used with the 3 cups of water when boiling. Any suggestions?

Community Answer

I'm figuring since it first said to use 1 cup of beans to 4 cups of water to soak, they are talking about 1 cup of beans.
Question

How do I de-gas black turtle beans?

Community Answer

Some say to put the beans in water, get it to boil and then discard that water. Drain off the beans, put them back in the pot, pour in warm water and proceed with the recipe, whatever the recipe was.