Katie's Healthy Take: Why Should You Cook With Dried Beans?

Sure, it is easy to grab a can of beans, rinse and drain them and toss them into your recipe, but there are several good reasons to stock up on dried beans.

Related To:

dried beans

Sure, it is easy to grab a can of beans, rinse and drain them and toss them into your recipe, but there are several good reasons to stock up on dried beans, which can be easy to prepare as well.

Why choose dried over canned?
  • Dried beans are less expensive
  • There are more varieties of dried beans than canned beans available
  • Most dried beans are free of added sodium and preservatives
  • Cooking dried beans reduces packaging waste
How to buy and store:
  • Buy beans that are similar in shape, color and size (unless you are buying a variety of types in one bag)
  • Store dried beans in a sealed container (zip-lock bag, canister, etc.) in a cool, dark place for up to one year
  • Cooked beans can be stored, sealed, in the refrigerator for up to one week
How to Prepare:
  • Sift through then rinse your beans to remove any pebbles or dirt that may be along for the ride
  • Soak dried beans for several hours or overnight (check the packaging)
  • Once soaked, cook the beans in clean water (not the soaking liquid) per the packaging as cook times vary depending on the bean

*You can cook beans in a heavy duty stock pot (they usually take 1-3 hours), pressure cooker (beans take a quick 5-15 minutes), or a crock pot (cook for 6-8 unattended hours)

Tip: You'll know when your beans are done when you can mash one with your fingers.

Now What? You have cooked a batch of dried beans and the yield is equal to nearly 3 cans of its cooked cousin. The pro, you will be motivated to incorporate this healthy pantry staple into several meals throughout the week.  Here are some recipes to inspire you:

For more information on beans check out this article by Toby.

Next Up

Why What You Eat Can Impact Your Stress Levels

Your nutrition can impact your overall stress levels. Here's how to eat to help manage your stress.

How Nutritionists Make Nostalgic Recipes Healthier

Dietitians love comfort food, too. Here’s how they reimagine their favorites into healthier recipes.

MyPlate-Approved Recipes

Plan healthy, home-cooked meals for your family with our MyPlate-approved recipes.

5 Things to Know About Choosing a Prenatal Vitamin

Many healthcare providers recommend prenatal vitamins for those who are pregnant or trying to conceive.

After 30 Years, the FDA Wants to Change Its Definition of Healthy Food

The new guidelines will focus on foods that benefit overall health instead of just focusing on their numbers.

Why Eating a Plant-Forward Diet Is Better for Your Health

Getting more plants on your plate is the goal, but you don't have to eliminate animal products completely.

The Best Vitamin D Supplements, According to a Nutritionist

What to do if you’re deficient in vitamin D or are wondering which supplement to take.

Bring on the Cozy Vibes with 6 Healthy Ways to Eat Chili

You’re one dish away from instant comfort.

What a Food Safety Expert Wants You to Know About All the Food Recalls

Including how to stay up-to-date on the latest recalled products.

12 Expert-Approved Tips to Make Meal Prep Easier

We asked four meal prep professionals for their secrets to successful meal planning.