Mexican Style Red Silk Beans

Blue Zone is a term coined in 2005 to describe areas around the world with unusually high concentrations of people who live noticeably longer than others. While researchers found many commonalities between these areas, the one common food these folks ate were legumes. Getting more legumes such as beans into your diet may be a challenge. So, we present a simple recipe for Mexican style beans that are delicious and healthy.
The red silk bean originates from Central America and is thought by some to be the best bean in the world. They are prized for their creamy taste. Though hard to find locally, they are normally available from the Old Town Newhall Farmers Market. The Gutierrez family grows these beans on their family farm in Nipomo, California. While you can use any dry bean for this recipe, this is our favorite.
Like the red silk beans, the salsa called for in this recipe can be found at the Old Town Newhall Farmers Market. Local restaurant and caterer Fiesta Taco Grill sells six different kinds of salsa at the market. All of them are very different and made from scratch.
We like the simplicity of this recipe. These can be served as a dinner item or with eggs for a healthy breakfast. They store and reheat very well.

1 lb Dry Red Silk Beans
1 to 2 Cups Fresh Salsa (add to taste)
Toppings (Optional) such as onions, cheese, cilantro
Cover beans with at least 2 inches of water and soak overnight.
Drain and fill with fresh water when ready to cook.
Boil beans for 60 to 70 minutes until tender.
Drain, stir in salsa.

Top with anything desired.
Serve immediately.

The Old Town Newhall Farmers Market is a certified farmers’market bringing Santa Clarita true farm direct product and the finest food products available in Santa Clarita. It operates year-round, every Saturday from 8:30am until 1:30pm. It is located in the parking lot of the Old Town Newhall Library at 24500 Main Street in Newhall.

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