Recipe: Black Bean and Pepper Salad (4 - 6)

Ingredients...

1 1/4 cups dried Black Beans
1 bay leaf
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 onion, chopped finely
1 tsp salt
1/2 cup each red, yellow & green peppers, diced
1 small red onion, cut in small squares
1 stalk celery, cut in squares
fresh coriander to garnish

VINAIGRETTE WITH CUMIN...

1 tbsp lemon or orange juice
1 tsp grated orange or lemon peel
1 tbsp sherry vinegar
1/2 tsp salt
1 clove garlic, chopped finely
1/2 tsp cumin seeds
1/2 tsp coriander seeds
1/4 tsp paprika
5-6 tbsps olive oil
1 tbsp mint leaves, chopped
1 tbsp coriander leaves, chopped
1 chilli pepper, seeded & finely diced

Instructions...

1) Cover the beans with water and soak overnight.DRain and cover with plenty of fresh water. Add the herbs and finely chopped onion. Bring to the boil and add salt. Reduce heat and simmer until tender but keeping their shape- about 45 minutes. Drain.

2) Make the vinaigrette by combining the juice, peel, vinegar, salt and garlic in a bowl.Crush the cumin and coriander seeds coarsely with a pestle and mortar.Add to the dressing with the paprika then mix in the oil. Add the fresh herbs and chilli.Pour over the warm beans.

3) Add the peppers, red onion and celery. Toss everything together and check the seasoning. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with coriander.