More and more people are realizing that black beans not only have edible value but also medicinal value, which has led to an increase in the market price of black beans. However, if you buy black beans and find that they are white after peeling, it is very likely that you have been deceived because those are not genuine black beans, but rather black soybeans. So what are the differences between the two? This article will explain it to you in detail.
Different Shapes
In terms of shape, black beans are larger than black soybeans. Most black beans are round and plump, and many of them resemble the human kidney. On the other hand, black soybeans are flat and oval-shaped.
Different Luster
Genuine black beans are large and round, with dark black skins but without any shine. On the other hand, black soybeans are smaller and have black and shiny skins. The difference between black beans and black soybeans can also be seen when soaked. After soaking, black beans turn into a reddish brown liquid, while black soybeans turn into black water. Black beans that lose color lightly are black beans, while those that lose color heavily are black soybeans.
Split the Beans and Look at the Kernels
The kernels of black beans and black soybeans are different. Black beans generally have yellow or green kernels, while black soybeans have white kernels. When buying beans, you can split them open to see the color of the kernels.
Different Categories and Nutritional Values
Black beans belong to the soybean category and, just like soybeans, can be sprouted and eaten as sprouts. They are known for their kidney-nourishing properties and have a relatively high fat content. On the other hand, black soybeans are smaller and belong to the starch bean category. They have a high starch content and are similar to adzuki beans and mung beans. Black beans can provide the body with the calcium it needs, while black soybeans have less pronounced effects.
Different Prices
The prices of these two types of beans in the market are generally different, with black beans being more expensive than black soybeans. Green-kernel black beans are usually sold at around 10 yuan per kilogram, while yellow-kernel black beans are sold at around 8 yuan per kilogram. On the other hand, black soybeans are the cheapest, with a market price as low as 3 yuan per kilogram.
Different Origins
Black beans are native to China, with green-kernel black beans being a local specialty and yellow-kernel black beans being introduced from Japan a long time ago. On the other hand, black soybeans are originally from Mexico and Argentina in the Americas, and they were only introduced and cultivated in China in the late 16th century.
Different Ways of Consumption
Experts suggest that black soybeans are more suitable for making porridge, while black beans are better for vinegar soaking because black soybeans do not have many of the nutritional components found in black beans, and their medicinal effects are different. Black beans have slightly higher protein, potassium, and vitamin content compared to soybeans, making them more effective in clearing heat, promoting diuresis, and providing antioxidant effects.
