How to Cook Beans in the Instant Pot
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5
How to Cook Beans in the Instant Pot
Description
Cooking beans in the Instant Pot is a flexible technique covering both soaked and unsoaked beans. Soaked beans cook more quickly (7-12 minutes), while unsoaked beans require longer pressure cooking (30-40 minutes). Salt and additional seasonings like herbs or spices can be added to enhance flavor. The pressure cooking method softens the beans efficiently without extensive oversight.
The recipe notes the importance of a natural pressure release for at least 10 minutes to ensure even cooking and to prevent breakage. After cooking, aromatics are discarded, and beans are stored submerged in their cooking liquid to retain moisture and flavor during refrigeration or freezing.
Cooked beans keep for up to five days refrigerated and can be frozen in portions for several months, making them practical for meal prep and quick additions to various dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound beans such as chickpeas, cannellini beans, pinto beans, black beans, of choice
- 5-6 cups water or vegetable broth
- 2 - 2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt (or 1 1/4 - 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt)
- Other seasonings as desired (bay leaves, black pepper, fresh or dried herbs, whole spices, chopped onions, garlic cloves, etc.)
Instructions
- Optional: add the beans to a large bowl or the Instant Pot inner pot and cover with cold water (about 6 cups). Soak for 8 hours or overnight. Then drain and rinse.
- Add the beans and water or broth to the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Add salt any other seasonings of choice. Stir to combine.
- Secure the lid and select the Pressure Cook setting. For soaked beans, cook for 7-9 minutes for cooked but firm beans, or 10-12 minutes for softer beans. For unsoaked beans, cook for 30 to 40 minutes.
- When the timer beeps, allow a natural pressure release for at least 10 minutes (or 15-20 minutes). Perform a manual pressure release to vent any remaining steam. Open the pot, discard any aromatics, and transfer the beans to your glass tupperware. I like to store the beans in the cooking liquid, as it keeps them moist and is flavorful.
- Store cooked beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze in 1 1/2 to 2 cup increments for 6 to 8 months.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 7cups
Amount Per Serving
Calories 236 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 236kcal | 12% |
| Carbohydrates | 39g | 13% |
| Protein | 13g | 26% |
| Fat | 4g | 6% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g | 12% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Sodium | 103mg | 4% |
| Potassium | 567mg | 12% |
| Fiber | 11g | 44% |
| Sugar | 7g | 14% |
| Vitamin A | 43IU | 1% |
| Vitamin C | 3mg | 3% |
| Calcium | 73mg | 7% |
| Iron | 4mg | 22% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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