1 Oz Black Bean Sauce contains 29 Calories, making it a great low-calorie option for adding flavor to your meals. Black bean sauce is a popular Condiment in Chinese Cuisine and is made from fermented black soybeans. This savory sauce can be used in a variety of dishes to add a rich depth of flavor.

In addition to being low in Calories, black bean sauce is also a good source of Protein, Fiber, and Iron. It contains antioxidants that can help boost your immune system and prevent certain chronic diseases.

If you're looking to add flavor to your meals without adding a ton of Calories, black bean sauce is a great option. Let's take a closer look at this delicious Condiment and how it can be used in cooking.

What is Black Bean Sauce?

Black bean sauce is a Condiment commonly used in Chinese Cuisine. It is made from fermented black soybeans that have been mashed into a paste and then combined with garlic, soy sauce, sugar, and sometimes other seasonings. The result is a thick, savory sauce that is often used to flavor stir-fry dishes, marinades, and dipping sauces. It has a slightly sweet and salty taste with a hint of Umami Flavor. Black bean sauce can be found in most Asian grocery stores and is also available online. It is sold in jars or bottles and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to six months.

Flavors and Ingredients

Black bean sauce has a savory, slightly sweet taste with a hint of Umami Flavor. The sauce is made from fermented black soybeans, garlic, soy sauce, sugar, and sometimes other seasonings like chili peppers or ginger. The fermented black soybeans give the sauce its distinct flavor and also provide Protein, Fiber, and Iron. Garlic adds a pungent, earthy flavor while soy sauce and sugar provide a salty, sweet taste. Some variations of black bean sauce may also include other ingredients like oyster sauce or hoisin sauce for added sweetness.

Health Benefits of Black Bean Sauce

Black bean sauce is not only low in Calories but also a good source of Protein, Fiber, and Iron. It contains antioxidants that can help fight inflammation and boost your immune system. The fermented black soybeans used to make the sauce are also a good source of probiotics, which can improve gut health and digestion. However, it is important to note that black bean sauce is high in sodium and should be used in moderation for those watching their salt intake.

How to Use Black Bean Sauce in Cooking

Black bean sauce can be used in a variety of ways in cooking. It is commonly used as a marinade for meat, poultry, or seafood, or as a flavorful addition to stir-fry dishes. You can also use black bean sauce as a dipping sauce for dim sum or as a Condiment for noodles or rice dishes. When using black bean sauce, it is important to remember that a little goes a long way. Start by adding a small amount to your dish and taste as you go to avoid overpowering the other flavors.

Types of Dishes Black Bean Sauce Complements

Black bean sauce pairs well with a variety of dishes, especially those with meat, poultry, or seafood. It is commonly used in stir-fry dishes and noodle or rice dishes. Black bean sauce can also be used as a marinade for grilled meats or as a dipping sauce for dumplings and other dim sum dishes. Some specific dishes that black bean sauce complements include beef with broccoli, shrimp stir-fry, and black bean chicken.

Low-Calorie Alternative

Black bean sauce is a great low-calorie alternative to other Condiments like barbecue sauce or mayonnaise. It can add flavor to your meals without adding a ton of Calories. When compared to other sauces like hoisin sauce or oyster sauce, black bean sauce is lower in sugar and calories.

Regional Variations of Black Bean Sauce

Black bean sauce is commonly used in Chinese Cuisine, but variations of the sauce can be found in other Asian countries as well. In Korea, a similar sauce called chunjang is made with caramelized black soybeans and is used in dishes like jjajangmyeon, a popular noodle dish. In Indonesia, a sauce called tauco is made from fermented beans and often used as a Condiment for seafood dishes.

Making Homemade Black Bean Sauce

While black bean sauce can be easily found in most grocery stores, it can also be made at home with just a few ingredients. To make homemade black bean sauce, you will need fermented black soybeans, garlic, soy sauce, sugar, and water. Simply mash the beans into a paste and combine with the other ingredients. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a sauce-like consistency. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one month.

Storing and Shelf Life

Black bean sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to six months. If you make homemade black bean sauce, it will keep in the refrigerator for up to one month. Before using, always check the expiration date on store-bought black bean sauce and discard if it has gone bad.

Where to Buy Black Bean Sauce

Black bean sauce can be found in most Asian grocery stores and is also available online. It is typically sold in jars or bottles and can be found in the Condiment or Asian food sections of the store. Some popular brands of black bean sauce include Lee Kum Kee, Koon Chun, and Tai Hua.