Bountiful Beans

March 15, 2020
| Created by Melanie Taylor, MS, RDN, CD

Have you recently purchased enough dry goods to get through a two week quarantine?   That’s great! Now what?  Do you actually know how to take that bag of beans and make it into an edible meal? Don’t be intimidated.  Beans can go from food storage to your dinner table in three easy steps.

  1. Wash and Sort
    • Remove any discolored beans or foreign materials.  Rinse.
  2. Soak
    • Regular Method: Soak one pound of dry beans in 6 cups of water and ½ teaspoon of salt.  Let stand overnight , drain and rinse
    • Brining Method:  For 1 pound of dried beans, dissolve 3 tablespoons of table salt in 4 quarts of cold water. Soak the beans at room temperature for 8 to 24 hours. Drain and rinse them well before using.
  3. Cook
    • Stovetop Method: Place beans in large pot and cover with water.  Simmer (low boil) covered or partially covered until tender, usually 2-4 hours.  Check regularly and add more water if it gets low.
    • Crockpot Method: Place beans in crockpot and cover with water.  Add desired seasonings.  Cook on low for 10-12 hours.

Your beans are now ready to be added to chilis, soups, stews, enchiladas, or enjoy them as a side dish! Or try Chef Lesli’s Artichoke, Tuna, and White Bean Salad.