Mexico Beans

Black Beans have a nutmeg-like aroma and a pleasant sweetness. They combine well with oranges and with fish such as sole. You will need about 14 hours to prepare this dish.

For two people you will need:

7oz Black Beans

1 Onion

2 Oranges

2 Cloves of Garlic

1tsp Cocoa Powder

1pint Vegetable Stock

2oz Butter

1tbsp Cilantro Seeds

Nutmeg

1 Bay Leaf

Salt

Pepper

Preparation:

Sweat the finely chopped onion with the whole garlic cloves in butter. Put the beans in a pot and pour the stock over them, adding the onions, garlic and bay leaf. Cover it and let the beans soak overnight, or for at least 12 hours. After 12 hours add the cilantro seeds in a tied up linen pouch with the halved orange and cook it all up for about 1½ hours. You may need to add water if the level gets too low so keep an eye on it. Slice the second orange, melt some butter in a pan and saute the slices. It is also possible to cut the rind off the orange before serving if necessary. Take the slices out of the pan and position them on a plate- then pour the juice from the pan over it all. Drain the beans and remove the orange halves and the cilantro seeds. Season the beans with salt and put them on the orange slices. Finally sprinkle it all with cocoa powder and a rub of nutmeg.