How To Cook Dried Beans From Scratch

Cooking beans from scratch is a practice and a learnable skill that will serve you for many years to come.
We’re all busy and pulled in different directions each day which can lead to choosing convenience over traditional cooking methods.
However, there’s a growing movement towards scratch cooking, where people move towards making their meals from the most basic ingredients, avoiding preservatives, and increasing their self-sufficiency.
Learning to cook dried beans from scratch is a perfect example of greater self-sufficiency, controlling what goes into your food, and stretching your budget.
Whether you’re a fan of black beans, pinto beans, white cannellini beans, or garbanzos, making them from scratch offers numerous advantages.

Dried Beans Are A Great Value

Beans are incredibly economical. A pound of dried beans costs just a fraction of what you would pay for an equivalent amount of canned beans. For those looking to stretch their grocery budget, this can result in significant savings over time.
Beyond the cost factor, beans are also a nutritional powerhouse. They are rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them an essential component of a balanced diet. When prepared from dried form, beans retain their full nutritional profile without the added sodium and preservatives often found in canned varieties.
If you swap meat for beans, even partially, you’ll save a ton.

Cooking beans from scratch allows for greater versatility in the kitchen

With just a little preparation, you can transform dried beans into a variety of delicious dishes, from hearty Mexican fare to comforting chili.
By making a large batch and freezing portions for later use, you can also streamline your meal prep, ensuring you always have a healthy and convenient ingredient on hand.

Why Choose Dried Beans?

Cost Savings

One of the most compelling reasons to choose dried beans over canned beans is the significant cost savings. A pound of dried beans typically costs much less than a comparable amount of canned beans.
For example, you can often buy a pound of dried beans for under $2, which, when cooked, yields approximately six cups of beans. In contrast, a can of beans, which contains about 1.5 cups, might cost around $1.
This means that dried beans can be up to four times cheaper than their canned counterparts.
By choosing to use beans in place of meat (all or partial swap), you can save a ton on pound-for-pound comparisons.
For those looking to stretch their grocery budget, switching to dried beans is a simple yet effective strategy.

Nutritional Benefits

Dried beans also offer superior nutritional benefits compared to canned beans. While both are excellent sources of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, dried beans do not contain the added sodium and preservatives often found in canned beans.
Excessive sodium intake is linked to various health issues, including hypertension and heart disease. By cooking your beans from scratch, you can control the amount of salt added and ensure you’re consuming a healthier product.
Additionally, dried beans often have a higher nutrient density, as some nutrients can leach into the canning liquid and be lost during processing.

Environmental Impact

Choosing dried beans over canned beans also has a positive environmental impact. Dried beans require minimal packaging compared to canned beans, which means less waste and a smaller carbon footprint.
Cans are often lined with BPA or other chemicals that can leach into the food, posing potential health risks.
By opting for dried beans, you reduce your reliance on single-use packaging and contribute to a more sustainable food system.
Most bulk and refill stores have all sorts of beans. You can arrive with your multi-use container, such as an empty pickle or pasta sauce jar or cloth bag, fill it, and pay only for the beans, not the packaging.
Moreover, transporting dried beans is more energy-efficient because they are lighter and less bulky than canned beans.

Preparing Dried Beans from Scratch

Soaking Methods

Preparing dried beans begins with soaking, which helps to soften the beans and reduce cooking time. Soaking also helps to break down some of the complex sugars that can cause digestive discomfort. There are two primary soaking methods to choose from: the overnight soak and the quick soak.

Overnight Soak

The overnight soak is the traditional method and is straightforward:

1. Measure and Rinse: Measure the desired amount of dried beans and rinse them thoroughly under cool water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Soak: Place the beans in a large bowl and cover them with water. Use about three times the amount of water to beans, as they will expand while soaking.
3. Wait: Let the beans soak overnight or for at least 8 hours. If your kitchen is warm, place the bowl in the refrigerator to prevent fermentation. I typically drain and replace the water a few times before I go to bed.
4. Drain and Rinse: After soaking, drain the beans and rinse them with fresh water.

Quick Soak

If you don’t have time for an overnight soak, the quick soak method is a faster alternative:

1. Measure and Rinse: Measure the desired amount of dried beans and rinse them under cool water.
2. Boil: Place the beans in a large pot and cover them with water. Use about three times the amount of water to beans.
3. Boil for Two Minutes: Bring the water to a rapid boil and let the beans boil for two minutes.
4. Soak: Remove the pot from heat, cover, and let the beans soak for one hour.
5. Drain and Rinse: After soaking, drain the beans and rinse them with fresh water.

No-Soak Method

For those who are pressed for time or prefer a different approach, cooking beans without soaking is also an option.
This method can be done using a slow cooker or an Instant Pot/pressure cooker.

While the no-soak method requires longer cooking times on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, pressure cookers significantly reduce this time.

Stovetop No-Soak Method:

1. Rinse: Rinse the dried beans under cool water.
2. Cook: Place the beans in a large pot and cover with several inches of water.
3. Simmer: Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook the beans, adding more water as necessary, until they reach the desired tenderness. Depending on the type of beans, this can take 2-3 hours.

Slow Cooker No-Soak Method:

1. Rinse: Rinse the dried beans under cool water.
2. Cook: Place the beans in the slow cooker and cover with several inches of water.
3. Cook on Low: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or until the beans are tender.

Instant Pot/Pressure Cooker No-Soak Method:

1. Rinse: Rinse the dried beans under cool water.
2. Cook: Place the beans in the Instant Pot and cover with several inches of water.
3. Pressure Cook: Set the Instant Pot to high pressure and cook for 25-30 minutes for most beans. After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 15 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.

Cooking Methods for Dried Beans

Stovetop Cooking

Cooking beans on the stovetop is a classic method that requires minimal equipment and provides excellent control over the cooking process.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Rinse and Drain: After soaking, rinse the beans again and drain them.
2. Prepare the Pot: Place the beans in a large pot and cover them with fresh water. The water level should be about 2-3 inches above the beans.
3. Add Flavorings (Optional): For added flavor, you can include aromatics such as onions, garlic, bay leaves, or herbs. Most cooks avoid adding salt at this stage as it can make the beans tough.
4. Boil and Simmer: Bring the pot to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot.
5. Cook: Let the beans cook gently, stirring occasionally, until they are tender. This usually takes 1-2 hours, depending on the type and age of the beans.
6. Season: About 10-15 minutes before the beans are done, add salt to taste.
7. Drain and Use: Once the beans are tender, drain any excess water and use them in your desired recipe.

Tips for Best Results:

• Skim off any foam that forms on the surface during boiling.
• Check the beans periodically to ensure they are not overcooked.
• Adding acidic ingredients like tomatoes or vinegar should be done towards the end of cooking to prevent toughening of the beans.

Slow Cooker Method

Using a slow cooker is a convenient, hands-off way to cook beans, allowing you to set it and forget it.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Rinse and Drain: After soaking, rinse the beans again and drain them.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the beans in the slow cooker and cover them with fresh water, ensuring the water level is about 2-3 inches above the beans.
3. Add Flavorings (Optional): For added flavor, include aromatics like onions, garlic, bay leaves, or herbs.
4. Set the Cooker: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
5. Season: Add salt about 30 minutes before the end of the cooking time.
6. Drain and Use: Once the beans are tender, drain any excess liquid and use them as needed.

Advantages:

• Great for busy schedules as it requires minimal monitoring.
• Consistent and even cooking.

Instant Pot/Pressure Cooker

The Instant Pot or pressure cooker dramatically reduces cooking time and is perfect for those who want beans ready quickly.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Rinse and Drain: Rinse the dried beans under cool water.
2. Prepare the Pot: Place the beans in the Instant Pot and cover with water, about 2-3 inches above the beans.
3. Add Flavorings (Optional): Add onions, garlic, bay leaves, or other aromatics.
4. Set the Pressure: Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 25-30 minutes for most beans. Adjust time based on the type and age of beans.
5. Natural Release: Allow the pressure to release naturally for about 15 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
6. Season and Serve: Add salt to taste, and use the beans as desired.

Time-Saving Benefits:

• Rapid cooking time compared to stovetop and slow cooker methods.
• Perfect for last-minute meal prep.

Each cooking method—stovetop, slow cooker, and Instant Pot—offers unique benefits, allowing you to choose the best approach based on your schedule and preferences. By following these step-by-step guides, you can achieve perfectly cooked beans that are ready to enhance a variety of dishes.

Simple Recipe for Cooking Dried Beans

Basic Cooked Beans Recipe

Cooking beans from scratch can be straightforward and rewarding. Here’s a simple, versatile recipe that can be used as a foundation for various dishes.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of dried beans – pinto, black, 16 beans mix, cannellini, etc
• Water or your favorite stock
• 1 medium onion, halved (optional)
• 2-3 cloves of garlic, peeled (optional)
• 1-2 bay leaves (optional)
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse and Soak: Start by rinsing the beans under cool water. Soak them using either the overnight soak or quick soak method.
2. Drain and Rinse Again: After soaking, drain the beans and rinse them with fresh water.
3. Prepare the Pot: Place the soaked beans in a large pot. Add enough fresh water to cover the beans by about 2-3 inches.
4. Add Flavorings (Optional): For additional flavor, add the onion halves, garlic cloves, and bay leaves to the pot.
5. Boil and Simmer: Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot with a lid slightly ajar.
6. Cook: Let the beans simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until they are tender. This usually takes 1-2 hours, depending on the type and age of the beans.
7. Season: About 10-15 minutes before the beans are done, add salt to taste.
8. Drain and Use: Once the beans are tender, drain any excess liquid and discard the onion, garlic, and bay leaves. Your cooked beans are now ready to use in various recipes.

Tips for Flavoring:

• Add herbs like thyme or oregano for a more robust flavor.
• For a smoky taste, consider adding a smoked ham hock or a piece of bacon during cooking (if you eat meat). I love to add a ham bone with plenty of ham remaining on the bone to make hearty beans.

This basic cooked beans recipe is a versatile starting point for numerous dishes. You can adjust the flavorings and seasonings to suit your taste preferences and the type of cuisine you plan to prepare.

Storing and Freezing Beans

Portioning Cooked Beans

After cooking a batch of beans, portioning them properly can make meal prep easier and more efficient. Here’s how to do it:

1. Cool the Beans: Allow the cooked beans to cool to room temperature. This prevents condensation and ice crystals from forming when freezing.
2. Portion Sizes: Divide the beans into portion sizes that you typically use in recipes. Common portions are 1 to 2 cups.
3. Use Airtight Containers: Place the portioned beans in airtight containers or resealable freezer bags. Leave a little space at the top for expansion when freezing.
4. Label and Date: Label each container or bag with the type of beans and the date they were cooked. This helps you keep track of freshness and use them within a reasonable timeframe.

Freezing Tips

Freezing beans is a great way to have a convenient, ready-to-use ingredient on hand. Here are some tips for freezing beans effectively:

1. Single Layer Freezing: Lay the portioned beans flat in freezer bags and spread them out in a single layer. This helps them freeze faster and more evenly.
2. Remove Air: Squeeze out as much air as possible from the freezer bags before sealing them to prevent freezer burn.
3. Freeze Quickly: Place the bags or containers in the coldest part of your freezer. The faster they freeze, the better the texture will be when thawed.

Thawing and Reheating

Thawing and reheating frozen beans is simple and can be done in several ways:

1. Refrigerator Thawing: For best results, thaw frozen beans in the refrigerator overnight. This helps them maintain their texture.
2. Quick Thawing: If you need the beans quickly, you can thaw them in a microwave using the defrost setting. Stir the beans occasionally to ensure even thawing.
3. Direct Cooking: For soups, stews, or chili, you can add the frozen beans directly to the pot. They will thaw and heat through as the dish cooks.

Benefits of Freezing Cooked Beans

1. Time-Saving: Having pre-cooked beans in the freezer saves time during busy weeks, making meal prep more efficient.
2. Portion Control: Freezing in smaller portions allows you to use only what you need, reducing waste.
3. Consistency: Frozen beans retain their nutritional value and flavor, providing a reliable ingredient for your recipes.

Recipes Using Cooked Beans

Mexican Dishes

Black beans and pinto beans are staples in Mexican cuisine, offering a rich, hearty base for many dishes.

Black Bean Tacos

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked black beans
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Corn or flour tortillas
• Toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, avocado, cilantro, lime wedges, kernel corn, salsa

Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Season and Cook: Add the cooked black beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beans are heated through and well-seasoned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Assemble Tacos: Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. Fill each tortilla with the seasoned black beans and add your favorite toppings. Serve with lime wedges.

Pinto Bean Burritos

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked pinto beans
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 small bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Large flour tortillas
• Toppings: shredded cheese, salsa, sour cream, chopped lettuce

Instructions:

1. Sauté Vegetables: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the bell pepper and onion, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Season and Cook: Add the cooked pinto beans, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through and well-seasoned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Assemble Burritos: Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. Place the pinto bean mixture in the center of each tortilla, add your desired toppings, and fold the burrito. Serve warm.

Chili

Chili is a versatile dish that can be made with either black beans, pinto beans, or a combination of both.

Classic Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey (optional for a vegetarian version)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cans diced tomatoes
• 1 can tomato sauce
• 2 cups cooked black beans
• 2 cups cooked pinto beans
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, pickled jalapenos

Instructions:

1. Cook Meat (If Using): In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cooked beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. If using meat, add it back to the pot.
4. Simmer: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes to blend flavors. The longer it simmers, the better the flavor.
5. Serve: Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Vegetarian Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bell peppers, chopped
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 2 cans diced tomatoes
• 1 can tomato sauce
• 2 cups cooked black beans
• 2 cups cooked pinto beans
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: avocado, shredded cheese, cilantro

Instructions:

1. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and zucchini. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cooked beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Simmer: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes to blend flavors.
4. Serve: Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Other Dishes

Beans can be used in a variety of other dishes, providing versatility and nutrition to your meals.

Bean Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked black beans
• 2 cups cooked pinto beans
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Juice of 2 limes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the black beans, pinto beans, bell peppers, red onion, corn, and cilantro.
2. Dress the Salad: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Bean Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked black beans (or 16 bean mix, white Northern beans, etc.)
• 2 cups cooked pinto beans
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
3. Simmer: Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Blend (Optional): For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender.
5. Serve: Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

These recipes showcase the versatility and deliciousness of beans.

From Mexican-inspired dishes to hearty chili and refreshing salads, cooked beans can elevate any meal.
Experiment with these recipes and enjoy the many flavors and textures that beans have to offer.

Additional Tips and Considerations for Scratch Cooked Beans

Seasoning Options

To enhance the flavor of your beans, consider these seasoning options:

• Herbs and Spices: Add dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary, and spices such as cumin, paprika, or coriander during the cooking process.
• Aromatics: Onions, garlic, and bay leaves added while cooking can impart a rich, savory flavor to the beans.
• Smoky Flavors: For a deeper, smoky taste, incorporate smoked paprika, chipotle peppers, or even a smoked ham hock (if you consume meat).

Using Bean Cooking Liquid

The liquid left after cooking beans, often called “pot liquor” or “aquafaba,” is rich in nutrients and flavor. Here are a few ways to use it:

• Soups and Stews: Use it as a base for soups and stews to add depth and flavor.
• Gravy and Sauces: Incorporate it into gravies and sauces for a nutrient boost.
• Baking: Use aquafaba as a vegan egg substitute in baking (3 tablespoons of aquafaba = 1 egg).

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Under-cooked Beans: If your beans are still tough after cooking, they may need more time. Older beans can take longer to cook.
• Mushy Beans: This can result from overcooking. Reduce cooking time or cook at a lower temperature to avoid this.
• Gassy Beans: Soaking beans and discarding the soaking water can reduce the complex sugars that cause gas. Adding a piece of kombu (a type of seaweed) while cooking can also help.

Cooking dried beans from scratch is a rewarding practice that offers many benefits, from cost savings and nutritional advantages to environmental impact and culinary versatility.

Whether you’re making tacos, chili, salads, or soups, cooked beans are a versatile ingredient that can elevate your meals and be gentle on your wallet.

Additionally, learning to store and freeze beans efficiently means you’ll always have a healthy, ready-to-use ingredient on hand, simplifying your meal prep and saving you time.