Why I Love This Recipe
When you forget to soak your dried beans, or when you simply don’t have the time, using canned beans may seem like the only option. However, this Instant Pot Quick Soak Method gives you the same benefits as soaked beans in less than 30 minutes! It’s a total game-changer for anyone who enjoys cooking with dried beans but doesn’t always plan ahead. Not only do you get to skip the long soaking time, but you also get perfectly softened beans that are ready for any recipe that calls for soaked beans. This method is easy, fast, and incredibly convenient!
Instant Pot Quick Soak Beans
Yields: 6 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: 224 kcal per serving
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried beans (any type of beans you prefer)
- Water (enough to cover the beans by about 1 inch)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beans:
- Place your dried beans on a shallow tray or plate to inspect them. Pick out any foreign items such as twigs, stones, or damaged beans.
2. Rinse the Beans:
- Transfer the beans to a bowl and fill it with water. Stir them around, and pick out any floating debris that rises to the top (this may include small stones or debris).
3. Drain and Add to Instant Pot:
- Drain the beans in a sieve or colander to remove the water and any floating debris.
- Pour the beans into the Instant Pot inner pot.
4. Add Water:
- Add water to the beans, ensuring it covers the beans by about 1 inch. This ensures that the beans will absorb enough moisture while cooking.
5. Pressure Cook the Beans:
- Close the Instant Pot lid, ensuring it’s sealed.
- Set the Instant Pot to cook on High Pressure for 5 minutes. This method works for most varieties of dried beans, including kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, and chickpeas.
6. Natural Pressure Release (NPR):
- After the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure. This process usually takes about 10-15 minutes. It’s important not to open the lid during this time, as the beans need that extra time to soften fully.
7. Drain and Use:
- After the NPR process is complete, carefully open the lid and drain the beans. The beans are now ready to be used in any recipe that calls for soaked beans, such as chili, stews, salads, or soups!
Tips & Tricks
- Variety of Beans: This method works for all types of dried beans like black beans, kidney beans, chickpeas, pinto beans, and more. Adjust the cooking time for larger beans like kidney beans or chickpeas if necessary, but 5 minutes is a great baseline for most beans.
- Don’t Overcrowd: If you’re using a large quantity of beans, you may want to do the soak in batches to avoid overcrowding the Instant Pot. This ensures even cooking for all the beans.
- Flavor Boost: For extra flavor, add garlic, onions, or herbs (like bay leaves or thyme) to the water while cooking the beans.
- Pressure Cooking Time: The cooking time might need to be adjusted depending on the type of beans. Smaller beans like black beans typically take 5 minutes, but larger beans may need 6-8 minutes.
Notes
- Pre-soaked Beans: This quick soak method is great when you don’t have time to soak your beans overnight. However, if you have time to soak them beforehand, it will reduce the cooking time even more, and you can use the beans in recipes more directly.
- Beans Absorb Water: Always make sure to add enough water to cover the beans by 1 inch to ensure they cook evenly and do not burn.
- Extra Liquid: If you have extra liquid left in the Instant Pot after cooking, you can reserve it for making soups or as a flavorful addition to your dishes.
FAQs
1. Can I use dried beans without soaking them?
Yes! This recipe provides a quick soak method using the Instant Pot, which eliminates the need for an overnight soak. This results in beans that are just as tender and ready for use.
2. What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?
If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can still quick-soak beans using a traditional stovetop method. To do this, bring the beans and water to a boil, let them boil for 2 minutes, and then cover them and let them sit for 1 hour before cooking. However, the Instant Pot method is much faster and more convenient.
3. Can I freeze the beans after cooking?
Yes! Once the beans are cooked and drained, you can freeze them in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label them with the date and type of beans for easy identification later.
4. How long do the beans last once soaked?
Soaked beans can last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container. If you’re not using them within that time, freeze them for longer storage.
Storage
- Refrigeration: After soaking, store the beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze cooked beans in individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the bags with the type of beans and the date so you can easily identify them later.
This Instant Pot Quick Soak Beans method will save you time and hassle, especially when you’re in the middle of cooking a recipe and realize you forgot to soak your beans. In less than 30 minutes, you can enjoy perfectly soaked beans without the wait. Whether you’re making a comforting soup or hearty chili, this method gives you tender beans that are ready to go
