Cookbook:Ibisuba (Rwandan Bean Salad)

Ibisuba is a refreshing and nutritious bean salad from Rwanda. Made with cooked beans, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing, this salad is a popular side dish that complements a variety of main courses.

Ingredients

 * 2 cups cooked beans (such as red beans, white beans, or black-eyed peas)
 * 1 medium onion, finely chopped
 * 1 large tomato, diced
 * 1 medium cucumber, diced
 * 1 green bell pepper, diced
 * 1 carrot, grated
 * Fresh cilantro, chopped
 * Juice of 1 lemon
 * 2 tablespoons olive oil
 * Salt to taste
 * Black pepper to taste

Equipment

 * Mixing bowl
 * Mixing spoon or spatula
 * Whisk

Procedure

 * 1) In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beans, chopped onion, diced tomato, diced cucumber, diced green bell pepper, grated carrot, and chopped parsley or cilantro.
 * 2) In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
 * 3) Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture, and gently toss to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated.
 * 4) Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper, if needed.
 * 5) Let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
 * 6) Before serving, give the salad a final toss and transfer it to a serving dish.
 * 7) Garnish with additional chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired.
 * 8) Serve chilled as a side dish with grilled meats, fish, or other Rwandan dishes.

Notes, tips, and variations

 * You can use any type of cooked beans for this salad, such as kidney beans, navy beans, or black-eyed peas. Canned beans can also be used as a time-saving option, just be sure to rinse them thoroughly before using.
 * Feel free to customize the salad by adding other vegetables like diced avocado, sliced radishes, or chopped bell peppers of different colors.
 * For added flavor, you can incorporate herbs like mint or basil into the salad.
 * Ibisuba can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
 * Adjust the lemon juice and olive oil quantities according to your taste preference for the dressing.
 * This salad can be enjoyed on its own as a light and healthy meal or served as a side dish at barbecues, picnics, or family gatherings.
 * Beans are a good source of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. This salad is low in fat and provides a good balance of carbohydrates and proteins. The vegetables in the salad contribute to its nutritional value, providing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.