A nutty-flavored non-caffeine tea that is good for the heart, lowers cholesterol, and prevents skin damage naturally.
Native to China, black soybeans (Kuromame, 黒豆) found their way to Japan. The black soybean, a rare legume, has long been used in Chinese medicine to clear toxins from the body and promote urination. According to Japanese folklore, the bean infusion is also a cure for sore throat.
Kuromame tea (黒豆茶）is a traditional Japanese tea made from black soybeans that have been boiled and fermented. The tea has a reddish-dark brown color and a rich, nutty flavor. It is a popular beverage in Japan and is known for its potential health benefits.
However, according to modern science, Kuromame has been proven to support our heart, reducing bad cholesterol from festering in our bodies and also organically protecting our skin from free radical damage from what we absorb in the environment day-to-day.
The smell of black bean tea is so soul-soothing that it grounds you with its earthen and nutty aroma with a slight hint of a popcorn-like taste. It makes for a good mid-day non- caffeine meditative tea or a digestive tea to end the day after a heavy meal or before bed. The smell of black soybeans is so grounding that it could almost be as relaxing as inhaling essential oil.
I've been to izakayas (Japanese taverns serving local small dishes) where Kuromame has been served in small tapas-like appetizer plates as Otoshi (a starter dish).
On a recent trip to Kyoto, I walked through the famous Nishiki Market (around for centuries and where locals would go to get fresh produce) in Shijo and stumbled across a famous black soybean tea shop. They offered free black bean drinks either hot or cold to the crowd to try and upon reading the health benefits on a sign next to the black soybeans, I was intrigued and wanted to share the health benefits of black soybeans with my HoFu audience here.
Here are some of the health benefits associated with Kuromame tea:
Rich in antioxidants: Kuromame tea contains high levels of antioxidants, which can help protect the body against damage from free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress, which has been linked to several health problems, including cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease.
May improve blood sugar control: Kuromame tea has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels. This is due to its high fiber content and low glycemic index. Fiber slows down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, which can help prevent spikes in blood sugar levels.
May support weight loss: Kuromame tea is low in calories and high in fiber, which can help promote feelings of fullness and reduce overall calorie intake. This can make it a useful addition to a weight-loss diet.
May improve heart health: Kuromame tea has been shown to have a positive effect on cholesterol levels. It can help reduce levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol, which can contribute to the development of heart disease.
May have anti-inflammatory effects: Some studies have suggested that Kuromame tea may have anti-inflammatory effects. Inflammation is a key factor in many chronic diseases, so reducing inflammation in the body may have several health benefits.
It is in the daily micro habits and what we partake in to fuel our bodies that ultimately contribute to our overall health - heart, brain, skin, hair, nails, etc. conditions. Why not focus on what your CAN control with a little effort daily while enjoying the present with a cup of black bean tea?
You can easily buy these in tea bag form from your local Japanese or Chinese grocery store,
or any supermarket. Muji sells them as well. However, I suggest getting these freshly roasted from the market if you can for that enhanced smoked and nutty smell.
How about allowing your new exilir, Kuromame tea, to work its magic during your beauty sleep by incorporating it as a nightcap to your daily bedtime routine?
Contemplate the Abundance and HoFu you are feeding your body as you sip on your next Kuromame tea...
Enjoy!
Sources:
(https://www.japantimes.co.jp/community/2000/07/03/general/its-a-drink-and-a-snack-black-soybeans/)