And it's true that most regions in Venezuela prepare black beans with a savory flavor, unlike the eastern regions (Sucre and Nueva Esparta), where their taste is sweet. This has always caused debates among those who don’t understand, or find it hard to accept, that some people prefer their beans with a bit of sugar. The topic has gone viral on social media, with users from the western regions mocking those who eat them sweet, but, at the same time, the easterners defend their tradition and respond with memes that showcase their pride and preference for eating them with sugar. But... is it wrong to eat black beans with sugar?
The answer to this question was summarized by a user on Steemit, compiling various authors and books that show that, initially, black beans were traditionally enjoyed sweet in the country. It wasn't until the late 19th century that, in several regions, people started preparing them savory. The user expressed disappointment over the disputes on social media and condemned the teasing and memes directed at those who prefer them sweet; the author was clear in stating that black beans should be eaten as one prefers: sweet or savory, and let's stop the debate.
Just like with mondongo, where the way of preparing it varies between the west and the east—either savory or sweet—black beans also showcase that rich diversity and style in how they're prepared and enjoyed. Food should bring us together... Bon appétit!
