Curious about different ways to cook dried beans? Here's a few different ways to make a delicious pot of beans...

0:14 OVERNIGHT SOAK METHOD
0:45 QUICK SOAK METHOD
1:29 SIMPLE SIMMERED BEAN RECIPE

OVERNIGHT SOAK METHOD

1. Rinse beans and pick out any beans that are discolored or spoiled.
2. Place beans in a bowl and cover with water about 2 inches above the beans.
3. Cover and soak overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse.
4. Add beans to a pot with fresh water, about 2 inches above the beans.
5. Turn burner on high, bring to a boil and then down to a gentle simmer.
6. Cook beans until tender (30-90 min, depending on the variety and freshness).

Tip: Season beans once they are fully cooked, otherwise the salt (or salty seasonings) will likely increase cooking time & prevent them from becoming as tender.

QUICK SOAK METHOD

1. Rinse beans and pick out any beans that are discolored or spoiled.
2. Add beans to a large pot and cover with water 2 inches above the beans.
3. Cover, bring to a boil for 2 minutes. Turn off the heat and let soak, covered, for 1 hour. Drain and rinse.
4. Add beans to a pot with fresh water, about 2 inches above the beans.
5. Turn burner on high, bring to a boil and then down to a simmer.
6. Cook beans until tender (30-90 min, depending on the variety and freshness).

Tip: Season beans once they are fully cooked, otherwise the salt (or salty seasonings) will likely increase cooking time & prevent them from becoming as tender.

SIMPLE SIMMERED BEAN RECIPE

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 /2 onion, sliced
1-2 cloves garlic, sliced
1 cup dry beans, soaked
Water or broth
1 teaspoon dry seasoning of choice
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 cup fresh herbs, chopped

Directions:

1. Soak beans using overnight or quick soak method.
2. Over medium heat, warm a small pot.
3. Add oil or butter.
4. Add onion, garlic and fresh seasonings. Cook for a few minutes.
5. Add soaked beans to the pot and cover with water, about 1 inch above the beans.
6. Bring to a boil, then down to a simmer and cook for 30-60 minutes until beans are tender.
7. Add salt and other dry seasonings, cover and soak for 10 minutes.
8. Serve warm with rice and vegetables. Wonderful in soups, salads, wraps, bowls and more!