A mild bean from Mexico that is at home in all kinds of dishes, from refried beans to charro beans to soups and stews.

These unusual beans come from Serdán, a city in the beautiful state of Puebla, right in the shadow of a volcano. The indigenous name of Serdán is Chalchicomula. It was a major center during pre-conquest times, strategically situated near Veracruz. The earth there is particularly rich thanks to the Orizaba volcano, in the Sierra Madre Oriental mountain ranges.

The bean is mild, but the bean broth has become a favorite. 

Cooking Instructions: Check beans for debris, and rinse thoroughly. In a large pot, sauté aromatic vegetables (onions, garlic, celery, carrot, etc.) in olive oil. Add beans and enough water to cover by about 2 inches. Bring to a full boil for 10 to 15 minutes. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer, using a lid to help regulate the heat, and gently cook until done, 1 to 3 hours. Salt when the beans start to soften. A pre-soak of 2 to 6 hours will lessen the cooking time.