Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Black Bean Dessert?
It is a traditional South American sweet dish, also known as Frejoles Colados, that combines pureed black beans with sugar, milk, and spices.
What is the traditional name for this dish?
This recipe is traditionally known as Frejoles Colados.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this dessert is vegetarian as it contains no meat products.
Is this dessert vegan?
The recipe includes evaporated milk; to make it vegan, you would need to substitute the evaporated milk with a plant-based alternative.
How long should I soak the black beans?
The black beans should be soaked in plenty of water overnight to help soften them for cooking.
How long do the beans take to cook?
After soaking, the beans usually take about 1 to 1.5 hours to cook over medium heat until they are soft.
How do I achieve a creamy texture for the beans?
Once cooked, use a strainer or food mill to puree the beans until they are completely smooth.
What type of sugar is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 lbs of brown sugar to provide a rich, deep sweetness.
Which spices are used for flavoring?
This dessert is flavored with two cinnamon sticks and three cloves.
What kind of milk is added to the bean puree?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of evaporated milk to enhance the creaminess.
How long does the final mixture need to cook?
The bean mixture should be stirred continuously over medium heat for approximately 15-20 minutes.
How do I know when the dessert is done cooking?
It is ready when the mixture thickens to the point where you can see the bottom of the pan while stirring.
Do I leave the cinnamon sticks and cloves in the dish?
No, you should discard the cinnamon sticks and cloves once the mixture has thickened and before serving.
What role do sesame seeds play in this recipe?
Toasted sesame seeds are stirred into the mixture and sprinkled on top for added flavor and texture.
How much sesame seed is required?
The recipe uses a total of 1 1/2 tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds.
Should the dessert be served hot or cold?
The recipe recommends allowing the dessert to cool slightly before serving.
What is the first step in preparing this recipe?
The first step is to soak 1 lb of black beans in water overnight.
What equipment is best for pureeing the beans?
A strainer or a food mill is recommended to ensure the puree is smooth and creamy.
Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?
While brown sugar is specified for its specific flavor profile, white sugar can be used, though it will lack the molasses-like depth.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed (beans, sugar, spices, milk, sesame), this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
How many cinnamon sticks are needed?
You will need 2 cinnamon sticks for this recipe.
How many cloves are required?
The recipe requires 3 whole cloves.
What is the total amount of black beans used?
The recipe uses 1 lb of black beans.
Does this dessert have a strong bean flavor?
The earthiness of the beans is balanced by heavy brown sugar and warm spices, creating a unique sweet flavor profile.
Can I skip the soaking process?
Soaking is highly recommended to ensure the beans soften properly and cook evenly for a smooth puree.
What is the prep for the sesame seeds?
The sesame seeds should be toasted before being added to the dish.
Is this a heavy or light dessert?
It is a rich and creamy dessert due to the combination of bean puree, sugar, and evaporated milk.
What cuisine is this dish associated with?
It is part of South American cuisine, particularly known as a traditional Peruvian treat.
How do I prevent the mixture from burning?
It is important to stir the mixture continuously while it thickens over medium heat.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, once cooled, it can be stored in a serving bowl or airtight container in the refrigerator.