COOKING GUIDE
Heirloom Beans Cooking Guide
Dried beans can feel intimidating if you’ve never cooked them before, but with just a few simple steps, you’ll be amazed at how easy the process can be (plus, the result is much more delicious than the canned alternative). There’s also nothing more luxurious than soaking, simmering, and savoring a batch of perfectly cooked heirloom beans.
To get you started, we developed this guide with tips, tricks, our favorite cooking methods, and a list of suggested cooking times for each of our heirloom bean varieties. Note that each bean has a different texture, and some are naturally more firm than others. We're dedicated to ensuring your culinary experience with SIMPLi beans is a satisfying one, so reach out to us @eatsimpli or at info@eatsimpli.com with any questions.
It’s important to note, however, that there is not one foolproof way to nail your bean cooking. Your results may vary from another’s based on a number of factors like altitude, cooking method, storage, water, and temperature. The best way to understand what works the best for your environment is to test and be patient—and have some fun while you’re at it! After all, that’s what cooking is for. Now let’s dive in!
PREP
Although it’s not necessary, soaking dried beans overnight can cut the cooking time in half and help ease digestion. For the best results, make sure to give those beans a good rinse before you start cooking them using your preferred method.
FLAVOR ENHANCERS
Our beans will soak up the flavors you cook them in through whichever method you choose. Sprinkle 1 tsp of salt and your favorite seasonings (we love a glug of olive oil, fresh herbs, lemon, onion, and garlic). You can also swap out water for broth in any of the cooking methods below to add an extra dose of flavor but remember to adjust your other seasonings accordingly.
OUR FAVORITE Cooking Methods
STOVETOP
- Place dried beans and water in a small pot (1 cup of beans per 2 cups), and season with your desired flavor enhancers
- Bring water to a boil, then cover and simmer on low heat for the recommended time.
- Stir it, taste, and season again before serving if desired
SLOW COOKING
- Place dried beans in your slow cooker or crockpot, cover with at least 1 inch of water, and season with desired flavor enhancers
- Set on high and leave for the recommended cooking time
- Taste beans to ensure they have reached your desired texture
- If not, cook on high for 5-10 more minutes and taste again
- Repeat until the beans are soft and tender
PRESSURE COOKER
- Place dried beans in your pressure cooker, cover with at least 1 inch of water, and season with desired flavor enhancers
- Set on high and leave for the recommended cooking time
- Taste beans to ensure they have reached your desired texture
- If not, cook on high for 5-10 more minutes and taste again
- Repeat until the beans are soft and tender
COOKING TIMES
TIPS TO REDUCE COOKING TIME
- Quick Soak: If you forgot or don’t have time to soak the beans overnight, use the quick soak method. Bring the beans to a boil, let them cook for a few minutes, then remove from heat and let them soak for 1-2 hours
- Shorten Soaking Time: If you're short on time, even a short soaking period (2-4 hours) can help reduce cooking time.
- Use Warm Water: Start with warm water instead of cold when cooking beans using the stovetop method. This can expedite the boiling process.
- Cook in Large Batches: Cook several portions of your favorite beans at once and refrigerate or freeze them to have on hand for your next meal.
Remember, the key is to experiment and find the perfect balance that suits your taste. Now you're armed with the knowledge and tips to cook beans like a pro. Indulge in the simplicity of perfectly cooked beans in your favorite dishes and get inspired with our recipes.
