How To Cook Beans Faster

Save Time in the Kitchen with these Bean-Cooking Hacks!

Beans are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and burritos. However, one downside to cooking beans is that they can take quite a long time to soften. But fear not, because we’ve got some tricks up our sleeve to help you cook beans faster! Here are a few time-saving techniques:

1. Soaking

Soaking beans overnight is a traditional method that can significantly reduce cooking time. Start by rinsing the beans and removing any debris. Then, place them in a large bowl and cover with plenty of water. Let them soak for at least eight hours or overnight. Soaking helps to soften the beans and reduce the cooking time by up to 50%. Drain and rinse the soaked beans before cooking.

2. Quick Soaking

If you forgot to soak the beans overnight or simply don’t have that much time, you can use the quick soaking method. Start by rinsing the beans and removing any debris. Then, place them in a pot and add enough water to cover them. Bring the water to a boil and let it cook for two minutes. After that, remove the pot from the heat and cover it with a lid. Allow the beans to sit in the hot water for one hour. Drain and rinse the quick-soaked beans before cooking.

3. Pressure Cooking

A pressure cooker is a fantastic tool for cooking beans quickly. It uses high-pressure steam to cook the beans in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop. Follow your pressure cooker’s instructions for cooking beans. Generally, you’ll need to add the soaked beans, water, and any desired seasonings or aromatics to the cooker. Close the lid securely and cook the beans according to the recommended time for the specific type of bean you’re using. Pressure cooking can cut the cooking time by up to 70%!

4. Using Baking Soda

Add a small amount of baking soda to the cooking water to help soften the beans faster. Baking soda increases the alkalinity of the water, which can speed up the cooking process. However, be cautious and only use a tiny pinch, as adding too much can affect the taste and texture of the beans.

5. Pre-Cooking under Pressure

If you have some extra time on your hands and want to speed up the cooking process even further, consider partially cooking the beans using a pressure cooker before incorporating them into your recipe. This method works exceptionally well for dishes like chili or stews. Cook the beans for about 10 minutes in the pressure cooker, then drain and rinse them before adding them to the main recipe. This technique ensures that the beans will be fully cooked and tender in less time.

By utilizing these time-saving techniques, you can cut down on the cooking time for beans and whip up delicious meals in a jiffy. Whether you choose to soak them overnight, use a pressure cooker, or try any of the other methods mentioned, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite bean dishes without the long wait.

So, the next time you’re craving a hearty bean chili or a delicious bean salad, put these tips into action and savor the flavors without spending hours in the kitchen!