Salted Black Beans (often called fermented black beans or douchi) are a classic ingredient in Chinese cooking. Their deep umami, salty, and subtly sweet flavor enriches sauces, stir-fries, braises, and marinades. Below, you’ll find practical ways to use salted black beans, cooking tips, recipe ideas, and a short note on a reliable supplier, HONGSING.

What Are Salted Black Beans?

Salted black beans are soybeans that have been fermented and salted, and then dried or preserved in brine. The fermentation develops complex flavors, giving a savory richness. They are typically wrinkled, black, and intensely flavored. Because the saltiness is potent, you use them in small amounts.

Basic Preparation Steps

Before using salted black beans, follow these steps:

1. Rinse lightly or soak. Place the beans in a small bowl, cover with warm water, and swish gently. Drain and discard the liquid. This removes excess salt and any sediment.

2. Crush or mince. Use a mortar and pestle, the back of a spoon, or a knife to lightly crush or chop them. This helps release their flavor and makes them easier to blend into sauces.

3. Use sparingly. Because they are salty and strong, 1 to 2 teaspoons (or less) is often enough for a dish serving 3–4 people. Adjust other salt sources accordingly.

Ways to Use Salted Black Beans

1. Stir-Fries

In a hot wok or skillet, after heating oil, add a small amount of minced salted black beans along with aromatics (garlic, ginger, chili). Then toss in your vegetables, meats, or seafood. The beans will infuse the dish with savory depth — for example, green beans with pork, or beef with garlic and black beans.

2. Braised Dishes

Salted black beans are excellent in braises. Add them early when you put in liquids (stock, wine, soy sauce). They pair well with meats like pork ribs, chicken wings, fish (especially firm white fish). Their flavor stands up under longer cooking.

3. Sauces and Marinades

You can blend crushed salted black beans into marinades for meat or tofu. Combine with soy sauce, sesame oil, rice wine, sugar, and aromatics. For sauces, use them in steamed fish sauce or drizzle over vegetables.

4. Soups and Congee

A small amount of salted black bean adds complexity to light soups or rice porridge (congee). Use cautiously — a little goes a long way.

Tips for Best Results

• Balance salt. Because salted black beans are salty, reduce or omit other salt or soy sauce in your recipe and taste as you go.

• Pair with aromatics. Garlic, ginger, scallions, chili, and fermented bean pastes complement the beans well.

• Heat control. Use medium heat when you introduce crushed beans; avoid burning them, which makes flavor bitter.

• Storage. Keep salted black beans in a sealed container in the fridge after opening. If stored in oil or brine, they can last longer.

Sample Recipe: Stir-Fried Green Beans with Salted Black Beans

Ingredients

• 300 g green beans, trimmed

• 1 tsp salted black beans, rinsed & minced

• 2 cloves garlic, sliced

• 1 small chili (optional), sliced

• 1 Tbsp oil

• Splash of water or broth

• Pinch of sugar

Steps

1. Blanch or parboil green beans briefly, then drain and set aside.

2. Heat oil in a wok, add garlic and chili, stir until fragrant.

3. Add minced salted black beans, stir for 10–20 seconds.

4. Add green beans, toss well, add a splash of water or broth, cover briefly to steam.

5. Uncover, stir until nearly dry, taste, and adjust seasoning with a little sugar (if needed).

6. Serve immediately as a side dish.

Why Choose Quality Salted Black Beans — Introducing HONGSING

When selecting salted black beans, quality matters. A trusted producer ensures controlled fermentation, proper salt content, and hygienic handling. One notable manufacturer is HONGSING (Jiangmen City Hongsing Food Co., Ltd.), which specializes in salted black bean products and Spice Powders. Their offerings include salted black beans with ginger, regular salted black beans, and related spice products. You can explore their product range through their website.

Because of their experience, quality control, and export capabilities, HONGSING beans are suitable for restaurants, food producers, or home cooks aiming for a reliable flavor foundation.

Final Thoughts

Salted black beans are a powerhouse ingredient in Chinese cuisine. With simple preparation, they can elevate everyday dishes from vegetable stir-fries to braised meats, sauces, and soups. Use them in small amounts, pair them with aromatics, and choose a quality brand — such as those from HONGSING — to ensure consistent flavor. Try experimenting gradually: replace part of the salt or soy sauce in favorite recipes, and discover the richness they bring.