I impulsively bought this at Stop & Shop for its spooky Halloween look. It’s a naturally black pasta that looks like a wiggly monster under the bed and I’m all for it!
Now, I know this product is really meant for those seeking gluten-free and low carb pasta options—which is great, don’t get me wrong. But it can be seen so much more than a “health” food. It’s a dramatic, unique ingredient that makes dinner look so much cooler and more frightening. OoooooOOOoooo!!!
In the Spirit of Halloween, this is fun for the kids (and me). Just boiling it in water looks like a bubbling witches cauldron of worms. Once cooked, dress it up with some bloody tomato sauce and olive eyeballs. Or mix it with butternut squash zoodles for that black and orange look.
Beyond holiday-themed applications, this spaghetti is great as a simple weeknight meal. It’s similar in flavor to regular pasta…as in it has NONE. It doesn’t taste like regular black beans in the slightest, so all you Bean haters out there give this a try!
At the end of the day, it’s a weird health food that probably shouldn’t even exist. But it does. So why not make the most of it?
T <3
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BASICS
About: Explore Cuisine Black Bean Spaghetti is a plant-based, gluten-free pasta alternative made from finely ground black beans. Its black color and 5-minute cook time will get a quick, eye-catching meal on the table. Ideal for anyone looking to eat less gluten or carbs without sacrificing their love for pasta.
Origin: Most brands source their beans from China, then make and distribute the finished product in the States.
Varieties: fettuccine • penne • rigatoni
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HEALTH
Nutrients: Antioxidants • Fiber • Protein • Calcium • Iron • Potassium.
Benefits: Support and maintain strong bones • Lower blood pressure • May prevent cancer • Promote healthy digestion
Ingredients: Black bean flour • Water
Substitutes: Other plant-based spaghetti, like chickpea or edamame. If you’re not gluten intolerant, you can substitute with regular pasta or squid ink pasta for the black color.
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SHOP
Where to buy: The organic or gluten-free section of your local grocery or health food store near other pasta. I’ve seen Black Bean Spaghetti sold at Trader Joe’s, Wegmans, Whole Foods Market, and Stop & Shop.
Where to buy online: Amazon • Explore Cuisine • Belladonza • The Only Bean
Other products: Edamame • Mung Bean • Red Lentil
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PREPARE
How to cook: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the black bean spaghetti and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 4 – 5 minutes or until tender. Drain and serve with sauce.
Where to store: Store in a cool dry place (i.e. your pantry) for up to 1 year.
Make from scratch: (DISCLAIMER) According to my research, making your own Black Bean Spaghetti is a difficult process. The dough is usually very crumbly and hard to work with, making it nearly impossible to make without factory machines. But if you want to take on the challenge, experiment with my rough guidelines below.
Place dried black beans in a heavy-duty blender (like a Vitamix) or a grain mill. Pulse the beans until finely ground, but don’t run the blender non-stop. Let the machine rest every minute to prevent overheating. You could also make life easier and buy ready-made black bean flour. Mix 1 cup of black bean flour with 2 tablespoons water, adding more until a dough forms. Roll it out with a rolling pin or pasta machine. And cut into strips for spaghetti, or squares for ravioli. Cook fresh, or dry in a dehydrator until firm.
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EAT
What it tastes like: Chewy • Bland
Suggested uses: Use in any recipe that calls for regular spaghetti. You can also get creative and use it in cold pasta salads, soups, burritos, or casseroles.
Recipes:
Spring Rolls (via Upstate Ramblings)
Baked Spaghetti Casserole (via Wanna Bite)
Pico de Gallo Pasta Salad (via The Only Bean)
~*~ Halloween–Inspired Recipes ~*~
Mushroom & Parmesan Pasta (via Trendland)
Roasted Butternut Squash Pasta (via Simple Gluten-Free)
Deviled Egg Eyes (via Mom Dot)
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COOKS NOTE
The flavor of your black bean spaghetti will vary depending on the brand you buy. Some may taste sweeter or milder than others, so adjust your seasoning accordingly. Experiment with different brands and shapes until you find a gluten-free, low carb pasta that’s right for you!
What do you know about Black Bean Spaghetti? Let me know in the comments below.
Really want to try this!
You totally should! It’s a click away on Amazon ; ) Hope you like it!