Our Guide to Swapping Canned Beans for Dried in Your Favorite Recipes

Here at 21st Century Bean, we know that the best meals start with the best ingredients. That’s why we’re passionate about providing high-quality, American-grown dried beans. If you’re used to the convenience of canned beans, making the switch to dried might seem intimidating, but we’re here to show you just how simple and rewarding it can be.

The Benefits of Using Dried Beans

Using dried beans is not only more economical, but it also gives you complete control over the flavor and texture of your dish. Unlike canned beans, our dried beans for sale are free from added sodium and preservatives, allowing the natural, robust flavor of the beans to shine through in every bite you take.

Soaking Your Beans: The First Step to Success

The key to creamy, perfectly cooked beans is a good soak. For most beans, a simple overnight soak in cold water is all you need. If you’re short on time, a quick soak method (boiling for a few minutes and then letting them sit for an hour) works wonders too. This step rehydrates the beans and ensures they cook evenly.

Cooking Your Beans to Perfection

Once soaked, cooking your beans is a breeze. Simply drain and rinse your soaked beans, then cover them with fresh water or broth in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until tender. The cooking time will vary depending on the type of bean, from our organic pinto beans to our other gourmet beans.

Easy Swapping: The Golden Rule

Ready to make the swap? The general rule of thumb is that one 15-ounce can of beans is equivalent to about 1.5 to 1.75 cups of cooked beans. This is roughly equivalent to 3/4 cup of dried beans. So, for every can a recipe calls for, you’ll want to cook about 3/4 cup of your favorite dried beans.

We hope these tips inspire you to explore the wonderful world of dried beans. With a little planning, you can elevate your favorite recipes and enjoy the superior taste and texture of high-quality beans. Learn how 21st Century Bean can help you make the switch and browse our selection of dried beans for sale on our website.