Budget Friendly Bean Recipes That Are Easy, Filling and Full of Fiber

Bean Recipe FAQs

• Are beans good for vegetarian meals?
  • Yes, beans are wonderful for vegetarian meals because they are filling, affordable and full of fiber and plant based protein. They work beautifully in soups, salads, burgers, bowls, tacos, dips and cozy skillet dinners.
• Are canned beans healthy?
  • Canned beans can be a great healthy shortcut. Look for low sodium options when you can, and rinse them well before using to remove some of the extra salt.
• What are the best beans to keep in the pantry?
  • Black beans, chickpeas, cannellini beans, pinto beans, kidney beans, lentils and butter beans are all great choices. With just a few cans or bags on hand, you can make so many quick and budget friendly meals.
• Can cooked beans be frozen?
  • Yes, cooked beans freeze very well. Store them in meal sized portions with a little cooking liquid so they stay tender, then thaw and add them to soups, stews, bowls and casseroles.
• How can I make beans more flavorful?
  • Cook or warm them with garlic, onion, herbs, spices, vegetable broth, lemon juice or a little olive oil. Even simple seasonings can make beans taste rich, cozy and delicious.

Basic Directions For Cooking Dried Beans

Cooking dried beans is easier than many people think, and it is a wonderful way to save money while filling the fridge or freezer with a healthy pantry staple.

1. Sort and rinse the beans.
   Spread the dried beans out and remove any tiny stones or broken pieces, then rinse them well under cool water.
2. Soak the beans.
   Place the beans in a large bowl and cover them with plenty of water. Let them soak overnight, or for at least 6 to 8 hours. For a quicker method, cover beans with water, bring to a boil for 2 minutes, turn off the heat, cover and let them sit for 1 hour.
3. Drain and rinse.
   After soaking, drain the beans and give them a fresh rinse. This helps remove some of the starches from the soaking water.
4. Cook until tender.
   Add the beans to a large pot and cover them with fresh water by about 2 inches. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until tender. Most beans take about 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on the type and age of the beans.
5. Season toward the end.
   Add salt once the beans are starting to soften. You can also add garlic, onion, bay leaves, herbs or vegetable broth for extra flavor.
6. Store for easy meals.
   Cooked beans will keep in the refrigerator for about 4 days, or you can freeze them in meal sized portions for quick soups, bowls, dips, salads and dinners.

5 Helpful Bean Tips

1. Keep a few cans in the pantry for busy nights.
   Canned beans are a lifesaver when dinner needs to happen fast. Rinse and drain them, then add them to soups, salads, tacos, bowls, pasta dishes or dips for an easy boost of fiber and plant based protein.
2. Make beans taste extra special with simple flavor builders.
   Garlic, onion, lemon juice, fresh herbs, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, pesto and a drizzle of olive oil can make simple beans taste amazing. Beans are like little flavor sponges, so even a few pantry seasonings can turn them into something delicious.
3. Use beans to stretch your grocery budget.
   Beans are one of the most cost friendly ingredients around. Add them to rice, pasta, vegetables, soups and salads to make meals feel heartier without spending a lot.
4. Try different textures.
   Beans do not have to be soft and simple every time. Mash them into burgers, blend them into creamy dips, crisp them in the oven, simmer them into soups or bake them into cozy casseroles for lots of variety.
5. Start small if you are adding more beans to your meals.
   If beans are not already a regular part of your menu, add them a little at a time. Try a scoop in a salad, a few spoonfuls in soup or a simple bean dip with veggies and crackers. Little by little, they become an easy and delicious part of everyday eating.