Let’s discover the world of unique and intriguing colored foods! One color that often surprises us in food is black – have you ever had black rice or pasta? It’s quite an experience! In this article, we will be exploring 22 delectable dishes that boast this rare and precious hue. These foods make perfect entertaining fare, plus they provide various health benefits like antioxidants, anti-aging properties, and disease prevention. But first let us discover what gives these dishes their distinctive black hue – let’s begin our culinary adventure!
What makes foods black?
Antioxidants: Black-colored foods are known for their antioxidants that prevent cell oxidation and slow down aging. This trait is found in nearly all black or deep purple foods. Though green vegetables are widely recognized as essential for a nutritious diet, many overlook the nutritional value of black foods which can be just as beneficial.
Anthocyanins: Plant pigments are abundant in foods that are black. Red cherries, blackberries and blueberries all display dark hues due to anthocyanins; foods with more of these tend to be deeper blue or nearly black in hue – the darker in hue or almost black the greater their concentration of anthocyanins. Anthocyanins protect plants against UV damage as well as oxidation; for instance the highest concentration is found in black soybean casings. Furthermore, anthocyanins have been linked to conditions like diabetes, heart disease and cancer by shielding cells from free radicals.
List of the 25 Foods that are Black
Black Bean
Black beans have a striking black shell and are one of the world’s most beloved beans. Markets typically carry them in bulk form. Different varieties of black beans are used for various cooking methods – northern Mexicoians enjoy making black bean tamales with them while Japanese use them as sweet or candy fillings.
Blackberry
Blackberries, commonly referred to as Morus the nigra in the Moraceae family, are renowned for both their fruit and beneficial properties like flavonoids and anthocyanosides which have been found to promote eye healing – especially macular degeneration and cataracts. Furthermore, other components of this plant have a long-standing tradition in traditional medical practices; its hypoglycemic nature and calcium carbonate content make it suitable for treating diabetes treatments.
Black Bread
Black bread has become increasingly popular around the world, including pizza buns and burger buns! The hue is created using cuttlefish ink or squid ink that has been combined with salt and water before being heated before freezing for use as a food ingredient. Contrary to popular belief, this ink isn’t poisonous – even in venomous species like Octopus where both components exist separately. However, those with seafood allergies may react negatively to squid’s ink.
Black Caviar
Caviar, also known as caviar, refers to the roe or eggs of certain fish species. Certain varieties are more affordable than others and black caviar in particular is derived from sturgeon which faces imminent death and requires a long time to produce its eggs. Due to these two factors combined, black caviar has become an incredibly rare and expensive delicacy.
Black Corn
Corn is one of Mexico’s most delicious dishes. Grown primarily in Chiapas’ highlands, this variety is used for pinole, tortillas, drinks and Tamales. With an alkaline taste that comes with many health benefits like antioxidants like anthocyanins that help prevent cardiovascular disease and strengthen circulation. Corn also boasts many nutritional advantages!
Black Garlic
The ingredient is widely used in Asian dishes. It is made through the fermentation of normal garlic bulbs in high temperature and is characterized by its sweet taste and balsamic notes. Allicin can be considered one the primary components that strengthens the immune system as well as increases the body’s defenses, particularly when it comes to allergic reactions.
Black Lentils
Black lentils, also referred to as Beluga or caviars due to their size and distinctive colour, always draw attention when displayed in store windows. Not only are these legumes packed full of protein (between 20-30% more than other similar options available), but their flesh (albumen) appears yellow inside. In addition to being high in protein content, black lentils also contain complex carbohydrates at about 50% plus fiber at 10 percent; providing you with a healthful source of protein with low glycemic index which makes them suitable for vegan or vegetarian diets.
Black Nebula Carrot
Discover the stunning beauty of Black Nebula carrots. Not only do these vegetables boast an eye-catching onyx color that permeates both inside and out, but they are also packed full of antioxidants with hints of wild berry flavor. Whether you prefer your vegetables raw or cooked, these amazing carrots will surely delight your taste buds.
Black Olives
Black olives are an excellent source of proteins and fibre. According to the American National Academy of Medicine, eating seven olives (about 37 calories) each day provides all the fiber and protein your body needs in one go. Not only that, but their Vitamin A and vitamin E make black olives an effective natural antioxidant you can incorporate into your diet for eye protection as well as immune support; plus their phosphorus helps enhance brain health by increasing cognitive capacity and concentration levels.
Black Potatoes
Black canary potatoes are one of the top potatoes grown in Spain and hail from a subspecies of Solanum Chaucha (the black egg yolk potato). It was brought from Peru around 400 years ago and features brown-black tones on its exterior with an irregular shape with some puffed holes. After cutting, you’re left with yellow pulp inside. The texture is firm yet chewy; its flavor has an earthy sweetness that reminds me of chestnut.
Black Rice
The black rice variety is a type of rice commonly found throughout Asia. The color comes from its abundant anthocyanins, an effective natural colorant. It’s typically sold as brown without taking out the husk; this dark grain lends it a dark brown hue. Similar to brown basmati in flavor and composition, black rice has almost identical amounts of fiber as brown basmati while providing that distinct nutty taste that brown rice gives off. Besides its delicious taste, we are truly amazed by its stunning appearance; sure to wow your guests when serving this unique variety!
Black Sesame Seeds
They provide energy due to their abundance of healthy fats such as omega-6. Furthermore, black sesame plants contain essential minerals like phosphorus, fiber magnesium calcium and iron which may reduce the risk of heart disease or cancer development.
Black Soybean
Black soybeans are an excellent source of minerals, protein and fiber. Their lipids help lower bad cholesterol levels and may prevent type 2 diabetes from developing. Macrobiotic diets often include black soybeans because they help with various urinary tract and intestinal issues. Furthermore, black soy sauce – both salty and sweet – is made from this super food!
Black Spaghetti
Black spaghetti is cooked using cuttlefish ink to give it its signature hue. With black-colored contrast and other ingredients added, you can create an eye-catching dish perfect for pasta fans. Depending on your preferences, you can cook this recipe several ways; if you cook the pasta yourself, it will taste fresh; however, if convenience is key, already-made black spaghetti or regular spaghetti can be purchased and colored using squid ink.
Black Tea
An investigation conducted by Rutgers University in New Jersey has demonstrated that theaflavins, the primary components of tea, are antioxidants which may aid muscle recovery after intense training. Furthermore, researchers believe drinking black tea may lower the likelihood of experiencing heart attacks as well.
Black Sapote
Sapote, commonly referred to as zapote, is a round fruit with glossy green skin measuring from 5-7 centimeters across. When mature, its pulp turns dark black or brown and has an irresistibly soft texture and sweet taste; best consumed when mature. It’s popularly used in making the traditional Mexican dessert called Zapotada which involves mixing black sapote pulp with orange juice and sugar; typically found in Michoacan state of Western Mexico but popularly enjoyed for creating ice cream using it.
Black Seaweed
Black seaweed has become the star of the show! Hijiki, also known as black seaweed, boasts high levels of iron, iodine and magnesium that shouldn’t be missed! Incorporate this nutritious seaweed into salad dressings or even your next sushi roll for some added nutrition!
Chaga Mushrooms
Flora is an unusual black mushroom found primarily on tree bark in colder regions such as North America, Eastern Europe and Asia. Countries like China, Russia or Korea have been using this mushroom for thousands of years due to its numerous benefits – from lowering cholesterol to controlling blood pressure and sugar. Plus it contains antioxidants which boost immunity; recommended treatments include pancreas-related inflammation as well as breast or uterine cancer prevention.
Charcoal
Activated charcoal, also known as activated carbon, is produced by heating various materials like coconut shells, sawdust or coconut at high temperatures to extract its properties. Beware of charcoal made by burning wood chips or food at higher temperatures! Though not classified as food, activated charcoal is taken orally to help absorb toxins in the stomach and digestive tract. Food poisoning can be especially beneficial when activated charcoal is taken as it helps to block toxins, keeping them in your digestive system for elimination instead of being absorbed. This reduces the work required from kidneys and liver in removing hazardous substances. Research has also proven activated charcoal reduces intestinal inflammation and damage to colon tissue; decreasing diarrhea, gastric gas, as well as abdominal pains caused by food poisoning.
Chia Seeds
Chia is a plant native to countries like Nicaragua, Guatemala, Mexico, El Salvador and Costa Rica that produces black seeds that contain high levels of fiber, carbohydrates minerals vitamins and carbohydrates. It’s believed the Mayans and Aztecs used this seed due to its many benefits – such as being an important source of Omega 3, having high fiber content which makes them great for managing constipation or lowering cholesterol levels. Plus they contain plenty of alpha-linoleic acid which aids weight loss while studies from 2017 indicate they may reduce Type 2 Diabetes risks too.
Chilhuacle Chili
Black Chilhuacle, also known as “ancient chili,” is hard to come by due to its exclusive production in Canada Chica, Oaxaca, Mexico. Due to its rarity, this chili sells at a high price point. Measuring 8 centimeters long and with a matte black hue, this pepper can only be found when making Oaxacan chichilo or black mole. Though you could substitute with the guajillo chili for flavor, its potency won’t be quite the same.
Chocolate
Dark chocolate, also referred to as pure or bitter chocolate, is more beneficial for your body than its full-milk and sweetened counterparts! It is made by mixing two components made from cocoa beans: The butter and paste – a solid and fatty component not flavored with sugar or milk.
This superfood is beneficial for your heart, brain and mood. It also makes an ideal weight-loss choice since it satisfies sweet cravings without the sugar rush. Furthermore, the bitter taste makes people less likely to overeat compared to regular varieties. To reap the maximum benefits to reap the full benefits, ensure your dark chocolate contains at minimum 70 percent cocoa and take care not to go over the daily recommended amount suggested by nutritionists.
Coffee
Drinking a cup of black coffee daily not only improves learning and attention memory, it also increases blood circulation while the chlorogenic acid in coffee decreases glucose absorption. Furthermore, studies from 2005 revealed that drinking coffee regularly improved memory and reaction speed as well as lower the chance for Type 2 diabetes and increases metabolism to help you lose weight. Furthermore, coffee may reduce depression and Parkinson’s disease symptoms too!
Vanilla
It is the fruit that grows on a climber orchid that is native to Mexico vanilla is a green berry that is harvested after about a month and half of the plant after which it is boiled and dried. After the drying process, both the pod as well as its seeds turn dark brown or black colour. The seeds and the pod are extensively used in confectionery for flavoring cakes, creams and syrups and ice creams. It’s also an important ingredient in soft drinks made of cola.
Purple Lady Bok Choy
Experience the majestic beauty and flavor of Purple Lady Bok Choy. These leaves boast an intense plum color that makes them almost impossible to chop up. Enjoy its robust, distinct taste – an ideal substitute for regular bok choy recipes. Add these antioxidant-rich leaves to your stir-fry recipes for a surefire crowd pleaser.
