Bean pie

Bean pie is a sweet custard pie whose filling consists of mashed beans, usually navy bean, sugar, eggs, milk, butter, and spices. Similar to the recipes for custard pie or chess pie, bean pie is part of the cuisine of the Nation of Islam, a religious movement in the United States. It was developed by the Nation's founder Elijah Muhammad, as an alternative to the rich, sweet desserts of the African-American tradition.

History

The bean pie dates to the 1930s. It was created by Elijah Muhammad, who led the Nation of Islam from 1934 until his death in 1975. Muhammad advocated a diet free of pork, which is forbidden in Islam, and also free of other ingredients like lard, which were common in African-American food at the time. The bean pie, made with navy beans, was one of the dishes that Muhammad promoted.

Preparation and Variations

The primary ingredient in a bean pie is usually navy beans, but other types of beans such as pinto beans can also be used. The beans are usually boiled until soft and then mashed. Other ingredients include sugar, eggs, milk, butter, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Some recipes also include vanilla or other flavorings.

There are many variations of the bean pie. Some recipes use sweetened condensed milk for a richer flavor. Others add coconut for texture and flavor. Some versions of the pie are crustless, similar to a quiche.

Cultural Significance

The bean pie is more than just a dessert in the Nation of Islam and the African-American community. It is a symbol of independence, self-sufficiency, and a rejection of the unhealthy, processed foods that are often marketed to African-Americans. The pie is often sold at mosques or at Nation events, and is also available online.

See Also

• Sweet potato pie
• Pecan pie
• Pumpkin pie

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