According to analysis, black beans contain useful amounts of protein, dietary fibre and nutrients including magnesium. They are also low in fat and carbohydrates. As with so many foods, the media and food sellers will make exaggerated claims for what black beans can do for you - you probably shouldn't believe all the hype about their wonderful health benefits without further proof - but it is true that they are a nutritious, low calorie food with a lot of uses, and so are a good addition to your diet.

They are also very tasty and easy to use. If you buy them in bullk you should soak them over night before you use them, but once prepared they are easy to cook and can be frozen. The canned ones are also very good and ready to use. My own favourite black bean dish is chille con carne, but there are lots of recipes that use them - you could try this page to start with.