Do you know black bean juice is good for your throat? The juice (or simply broth) contains antiflammatory agent called anthocyanins. According to www.naturalnews.com,
"Anecdotal evidence shows that the broth of cooked black beans is a curative arthritis treatment, possessing high amounts of anthocyanins, the same nutrients found in tart cherry juice, pomegranates, and red wine. Anthocyanins give certain fruits, vegetables and legumes their dark reddish-purple color, and are a good way of identifying foods that fight inflammation."
Of course, you may say, “Why not just buy cherry juice or pomegranate juice?” But there is satisfaction in making home remedy, which contains no additives or excess sugar. It’s 100% natural, more effective AND delicious! Its sweet and tangy flavor will be great summer heat buster and good alternative to sodas.
Here is my recipe:
Dry black beans - 1 cup
Citric acid- 2 tea spoons
Water - 4 cups
Sugar - 2/3 cup
1. Rinse black beans in cool water and clean very well, removing all grit and debris. Let them soak overnight.
2. Cover the black beans with 4 cups of water and bring to a boil. Keep the pot covered to preserve the liquid.
3. Reduce the heat and let the water and black bean mixture simmer for 20 minutes.
4. When cooking is complete, the liquid will be very black. Strain the liquid and cool. (Don’t forget to use the beans for cooking!)
5. Add citric acid. The color of juice will turn to raspberry red.
5. Add sugar. Store it in the refrigerator.
If you don't like too much acidity, you may try lemon juice instead of citric acid (Meyer lemon is sweeter than other kinds of lemons. Avoid using concentrated lemon juice since it will make the whole thing taste artificial. Also, lemon juice might not turn the black liquid to bright red.). Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste.
Enjoy! I hope you can go back to singing in no time!