Double Date Black Bean Vinegar

Why people make this tonic

This is one of those simple home preparations that people in southern China have made for generations — a jar of black beans and dates quietly sitting in vinegar at the back of the fridge, gaining potency with time. Nourilo came across an updated version online and immediately made his own, adapting it by using apple cider vinegar (which brings its own pleasant sweetness without needing added sugar) and by lightly dry-toasting the beans and dates before pickling them, which serves as a simple sterilisation step. After two days of steeping he was already impressed with the flavour. After 45–60 days in the fridge, the beans soften and the vinegar takes on the colour and nourishment of everything inside. Taken regularly in small amounts, it is traditionally associated with supporting liver and kidney health, promoting a rosy complexion, and maintaining naturally dark, glossy hair.

Method

1. Rinse the black beans and dates well. Spread on a clean surface and leave to air-dry completely — any moisture will cause spoilage.
2. Once fully dry, place all the ingredients in a dry wok and dry-toast (without oil) over low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring gently. This sterilises the ingredients without cooking them. Allow to cool completely.
3. When fully cooled, transfer to a clean glass jar, filling it to about half full. Pour in enough apple cider vinegar to fill the jar to the top. Seal tightly.
4. Store in the refrigerator. After 45–60 days, the tonic is ready to use.

How to take it

Take about 2 tablespoons of the vinegar, diluted in 1 cup of warm water. You can also eat a small handful of the softened black beans and a date or two alongside.

Nourilo’s Tips

Store in the fridge at all times — the dates make it prone to spoilage at room temperature. If you prefer to keep a small jar on the counter for convenience, decant a small amount (enough for a week) into a separate container, and leave the rest sealed in the fridge. The remaining vinegar, after all the beans are eaten, can be used to pickle a fresh batch of beans — just make sure the vinegar fully covers the new beans. Regular use of this tonic is traditionally associated with a naturally rosy complexion, dark lustrous hair, and bright clear eyes.