Ingredients

Dried vs. Canned Beans

Purchasing dried beans and soaking them overnight is the best way to get the true bean flavor and a smooth texture (not always convenient, mind you, so don't hesitate to used canned beans that have been drained and rinsed).

After soaking the dried beans, rinse them well and then cook with enough water to cover the beans (at least an inch or more above the beans). Depending on the type of bean it will take about 30 – 40 minutes cooking over medium-low heat .

In a pinch, rinsing beans and cooking without presoaking will be almost as good. They won't have as true a bean flavor. Cooking time will be about 25% longer.