Green, white, gray yellow, purple, red, and brown foods have advantages because of their high nutrient content, but have you heard of foods that are black?
If not, you should start painting your diet black since these items are healthier than many superfoods. The complete guide to black foods is provided here.
The best way to surprise your guests with something fresh and different is with foods that are black. Since this color is not frequently found in food, it always comes as a pleasant shock to the eyes.
Additionally, we will demonstrate that black cuisine’s advantages go beyond appearance. They also act as antioxidants, slow down aging, and guard against a wide range of illnesses.
But you must first understand what turns these foods black. Let’s get going!
1. Black Walnuts
Black walnuts, high in omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid, are renowned for enhancing heart health. Walnuts’ high ellagic acid content, which is thought to have a cardio-protective impact, has also been demonstrated.
Additionally, they are high in unsaturated fats, which help to reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness.
Also, they contain many antioxidants, including melatonin, which enhances both the quantity and quality of sleep.
2. Black Bean
This is one of the most well-liked bean colors in the world and refers to a kind of bean with a lustrous black shell. The marketplaces typically provide this variety of beans in large quantities.
Black beans come in a variety of types and are used in a wide variety of culinary applications.
For instance, black beans are used to produce tamales in the northern regions of Mexico, while they are also a common filler for sweets and candies in places like Japan. This bean color is one of the best foods that are black.
3. Blackberry
The fruit tree, known as the blackberry, often referred to as the black mulberry or Morus nigra, is a member of the Moraceae family.
It is primarily recognized for its fruit, but due to the flavonoids and anthocyanins, it contains, it also has several medicinal benefits.
These have been demonstrated to substantially impact how quickly cataracts and macular degeneration recover in the eye. Also, traditional medicine has a long history of using other plant components.
Furthermore, the leaves of this plant may be used to treat diabetes since it possesses hypoglycemic qualities.
They contain a lot of calcium carbonate as well. Blackberry is one of the best black foods you can see worldwide.
4. Black Mission Fig
You should try the mission fig, also known as the black mission fig. It is indigenous to the Balearic Islands and has naturalized throughout the western Mediterranean and the United States.
Also, the black mission is one of the most popular commercial fruits in Southern California and is most prevalent in the US.
In 1768, it made its first appearance in America. This excellent fruit was raised in San Diego by Franciscan missionaries (a large city in California).
No matter its role, the fig with dark skin will give your dish a fresh feel. You can make jams or jellies out of it or eat it as fresh fruit for dessert.
Additionally, it gives your body a significant amount of calcium, potassium, iron, and vitamin A. This fig is one of the best foods that are black.
What flavors will this fantastic fruit have when you eat it? Its best feature is its subtle sweetness. You might associate its flavor with a blend of melon, strawberry, and bananas. To learn more about this fruit, take a closer look at the black mission fig and give it a taste.
5. Black Bread
Black pizza and burger buns are both in style worldwide right now! Squid or cuttlefish ink is the component that gives the bread its color.
It is combined with salt and water, heated through, and then frozen before being used as an ingredient in cooking.
Contrary to widespread assumption, ink is not poisonous; venom and ink are two distinct substances even in venomous octopus species. However, squid ink may cause an allergic reaction in certain people.
6. Black Olives
This delicious meal originated in Mexico, the Caribbean, South, and Central America. Olive fruit is harvested from olive trees and then fermented and cured to remove bitterness. Usually, brine, water, or dry salt treatments are used to carry out the curing processes.
You must try black olives if you want a tasty black fruit with a mildly salty flavor. Unripe olives, however, do not taste good because they are bitter and have a strong flavor. Black olives are one of the foods that are black.
Furthermore, the high levels of antioxidants, polyphenols, beta carotene, and vitamin E in this fruit help to prevent oxidative damage to cells. A lot of black olive consumption can also prevent cancer.
7. Black Sapote
Other names for this fruit include “chocolate pudding fruit” and “black soap apple,” in addition to “black sapote.” It’s a particular kind of persimmon.
This tropical fruit originates from Central America, Mexico, and Colombia. It does not, however, have any similarities with white or mamey sapote.
This fruit looks like tomatoes in terms of size and shape. You may savor the flavor of black sapote while indulging in its soft and velvety texture.
Additionally, it has a characteristic dark tint that is somewhat reminiscent of chocolate pudding.
However, the unripe variety’s bitter and astringent flavor may turn you off. On the other hand, you can detect a hint of sweet caramel, persimmon, cocoa, and a texture similar to that of ripe papaya.
You should remove the fruit’s seeds before eating them if you can see them within. Fresh black sapote is frequently consumed.
It is also preferable to use its tender texture to create delicious treats. Better still, let’s substitute it for bananas in a few baked products.
8. Black Caviar
Some fish species’ roe or eggs, known as caviar, are more affordable than others. Specifically, black caviar is produced by sturgeons, an endangered species that takes a long period to develop its roe. These two elements combined make black caviar a costly and rare treat.
9. Black Corn
One of Mexico’s gastronomic jewels is corn. This particular species is mostly farmed in the Chiapas highlands, where it is used to make tortillas, pinole, beverages, and tamales.
The flavor is slightly more alkaline and has various advantages, including a high concentration of antioxidants such as anthocyanins, which will help prevent cardiovascular disease and enhance circulation.
10. Black Grapes
Are you a fan of black grapes? This is the variety I enjoy the most among the several grape species. Also, it has been around for over 6000 years, making it an ancient fruit. The earliest people who cultivated this superb fresh fruit were in Asia and Europe.
The dark purple or stunning black peel makes this fruit easy to identify. You’ll like the delightful mouthfeel from its soft, silky consistency. Additionally, you might become dependent on the sour-sweet flavor.
Today, there are 2 popular varieties of black grapes grown in 2 distinct regions. One kind is found close to the Black Sea, while the other is abundant in the Americas. Also, most black grapes are used to make wine or are deliciously eaten fresh as a snack.
11. Black Garlic
Asian food frequently uses this ingredient. It has a distinctive sweet flavor with balsamic overtones and is made by fermenting regular garlic bulbs at high heat.
One of its key ingredients, allicin, boosts the body’s defenses and the immune system, particularly during allergic reactions. This is one of the best foods that are black.
12. Black Lentils
These tiny seeds, also known as Beluga or caviar lentils due to their distinctive color and size, draw attention when discovered in a store window. Compared to other legumes of a similar nature, this one provides 20% to 30% more protein.
Although it has a black exterior, the albumen, which makes up its flesh, is yellowish on the inside. They include a lot of protein, but they also have a lot of complex carbs, about 50% of them, and about 10% of fiber.
These characteristics make black lentils a beneficial protein source with a low glycemic index when taken as a whole.
They are, therefore, an excellent option for a balanced diet and are also suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
13. Chaga
A well-known mushroom called Chaga typically grows on birch trunks. It is frequently found in chilly regions like Siberia, Northern Europe, Korea, Russia, and Northern Canada.
There are claims that Otzi the Iceman used Chaga 5300 years ago for medical purposes. Typically, this mushroom is black.
High levels of melanin are the cause. Chaga has a somewhat bumpy surface, making you think of a piece of wood.
However, the predominant earthy flavor and slight bitterness will tantalize your taste senses. Chaga consumption strengthens the immune system and reduces inflammation.
Additionally, it lowers cholesterol and guards against cancer. The DNA of Chaga is 30% more comparable to human DNA than any other plant, which is an intriguing revelation. This is one of the best foods that are black.
14. Black Carrot
I think that a lot of people are still unaware of black carrots. There is still a variety of carrots with a rustic and distinctive black color in addition to orange or red carrots. An abundance of anthocyanin is what gives this vegetable its unique black color.
Furthermore, Turkey, the Middle East, and the Far East are where this wonderful vegetable initially appeared.
There are four basic types of black carrots, according to the Journey of Agriculture and Food Chemistry: deep purple, Antonina, purple haze, and beta sweet.
Its mild flavor goes well with lots of delectable recipes. Additionally, this vegetable has a peppery aftertaste. Furthermore, its sweetness improves dips, stews, soups, and curries. Black carrot unarguably is one of the best foods that are black.
15. Black Potatoes
One of Spain’s greatest potatoes is the black canary variety. It is a member of the Solanum chaucha subspecies, also known as the black egg yolk potato, which originated in Peru and reached Tenerife more than 400 years ago.
Furthermore, it has a brownish-black tone and a spherical, slightly crooked shape on the outside, with some purplish holes.
It reveals a yellow pulp when chopped. Its consistency is both meaty and creamy. Also, it tastes strange, distinct, sweet, and similar to chestnut.
16. Black Rice
You can find a type of rice called “black rice” across Asia. Its rich anthocyanin content, a potent natural colorant, gives it its color. Without husking, this rice is typically advertised as brown.
The grain has a dark brown tint, but the husk is exceedingly dark. It has a flavor and texture that are similar to brown basmati. Also, it has almost the same fiber as brown rice and a distinctive nutty flavor.
We adore this rice for its beauty as well as its flavor. It will astonish your guests and has a distinctive appearance. This is one of the best foods that are black.
17. Black Sesame Seeds
Due to their high concentration of beneficial fats like omega-6, these seeds are a fantastic energy source.
They can also lower cancer risk and other illnesses, including heart disease. Iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, fiber, and fiber are all in black sesame.
18. Chia Seeds
Black seeds are commonly used in recipes for smoothies, salad dressings, pudding, and baked goods. Members of the Lamiaceae family include chia seeds. These seeds originate from southern and central Mexico.
According to some data, chia seed production dates back to pre-Columbian periods and was a part of Mesoamerican civilization. Later, you widely dispersed these dark seeds over Guatemala, Central America, and South America.
Chia seeds are often round and dark in color. These seeds’ white dots will serve as a pronounced highlight.
The meals that include seeds have a mild and chic nutty flavor. Both savory and sweet recipes benefit significantly from the addition of this flavor.
19. Black Soybean
Black soybeans are a good source of fiber, minerals, and protein. It contains lipids that help prevent type 2 diabetes and lower harmful cholesterol levels.
Black soybeans are frequently used in macrobiotic diets to help prevent various digestive and urinary issues.
Also, a fundamental component of sweet and salty soy sauces, which are used in various Asian dishes, is black soybeans. This is one of the best foods that are black.
20. Vanilla
In numerous culinary preparations, vanilla is an essential spice. Vanilla originates from the Caribbean, South, and Central America.
The first vanilla was grown by the Totonacs in the eastern coastal region of Mexico. Following their invasion of the Totonacs in the 15th century, the Aztecs acquired vanilla.
The spice that costs the second most money is vanilla. Despite its expensive cost, individuals frequently utilize it in household or commercial baking and perfume manufacturing.
The three main varieties of vanilla are V. planifolia, V. tahitiensis, and V. pompona. Furthermore, vanilla comes in four primary forms: the whole pod, extract, powder, and sugar.
Given that you may use it in various meals, vanilla is a flexible component. Also, it improves the flavor of delicacies, including pudding, ice cream, eggnog, and soft drinks.
21. Black Spaghetti
To make black spaghetti, use cuttlefish ink. This dish’s color is crucial since it immediately makes a statement when you see it.
For pasta lovers, this dish is exotic due to the contrast between the black spaghetti and the toppings you choose.
Furthermore, you can cook this recipe in several ways depending on how particular you want to be. The spaghetti will taste relatively fresh if you make it yourself.
If you’d instead go with a more practical choice, you could purchase pre-made black spaghetti or just plain spaghetti and add squid ink to modify the color. This is one of the best foods that are black.
22. Black Tea
According to a study by Rutgers University in New Jersey, the tea includes theaflavins, an antioxidant that aids in the recovery of muscles after strenuous activity. A cup of black tea may help with post-workout pain relief and lower your risk of a heart attack.
23. Chilhuacle Chili
The production of the black chilhuacle chili, also known as the “old chili,” is limited to Caada Chica in Oaxaca, Mexico, making it challenging to locate. As a result of its rarity, it frequently commands premium prices.
Furthermore, the 8-centimeter-long black chilhuacle is opaque. It is used to make Oaxacan black mole or chichilo and has a matte black color. Also, you can use guajillo chile in its place, but the flavor won’t be the same.
24. Chocolate
Dark chocolate, often known as bitter or pure chocolate, is far healthier for your body than its whole milk or sweetened counterpart.
It is made by combining two cocoa bean products: paste and butter, a solid and fatty substance to which neither milk nor sugar has been added.
Furthermore, this superfood is healthy for the heart, the mind, and the spirit. Due to its ability to satiate sweet cravings without having a high sugar level, it is also a wise choice for those trying to reduce weight. When compared to conventional versions, the bitterness reduces your propensity to overeat.
However, ensure your dark chocolate has at least 70% cocoa content to enjoy the maximum health benefits, and be careful not to eat more than the daily quantity advised by experts. This is one of the best foods that are black.
25. Coffee
A daily black coffee boosts memory, concentration, learning, and attention. Additionally, it stimulates blood flow again, and coffee’s chlorogenic acid content lessens glucose absorption.
This drink contains a lot of antioxidant qualities. A 2005 study found that regular coffee use enhances memory and reflexes.
Additionally, it lowers the risk of Type 2 diabetes, and caffeine speeds your metabolism to aid in weight loss.
Furthermore, the ability of coffee to lower the risk of Parkinson’s disease and depression is just one of its many beautiful qualities. Coffee is unarguably one of the best foods that are black.
26. Black Cod Fish
Fish, like black cod, is very nutrient-dense. This delicious dish is also healthy enough for your children to eat.
Also, you can use this fish to make delicious and mouthwatering dishes, whether smoked, grilled, steamed, or roasted.
Asian ingredients like ginger, soy, or miso marinades will enhance this fish’s entire value and flavor.
You can use this approach and combine it with various additional substances. Furthermore, you’ll be enthralled by its black color at first glance.
The highlight of this dish is the dark, grey scales. Additionally, the fish’s white belly will make it simpler for you to identify it.
For the greatest taste and texture, go for fresh black cod fish. The buttery, sweet flavor of this magnificent fish is difficult to resist.
27. Black Eggs
You should store the black egg in your cookbook, a beautiful Chinese delicacy. It is often referred to as a century egg, an antique egg, or a 100-year egg.
A mixture of ash, salt, clay, and rice hulls is used to preserve chicken, duck, or quail eggs to produce this specific delicacy.
You must put this dish on hold for a few weeks or months. The egg will turn dark green or black after the preservation process. Additionally, the intense flavor and distinctively creamy texture will leave you speechless.
Nowadays, manufacturers frequently use a mixture of calcium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, and table salt to soak eggs in place of clay and more conventional ingredients.
Since you need to wait ten days, using these chemicals cuts down on the amount of time.
28. Vanilla
Vanilla is the fruit of a climbing orchid that is native to Mexico. It is harvested after growing for about a month and a half, then dried after being boiled in water. This process results in the pod and its seeds getting a dark brown or black color.
However, it is common practice in confectionary to flavor creams, cakes, ice creams, and syrups with the pod and its seeds. It is a crucial component of cola soft drinks as well.
