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How Do I Cook Dried Beans In A Slow Cooker ?

by Margita Vargová
4 min read

Cooking dried beans in a slow cooker has become one of my favorite kitchen activities. It’s super simple, highly rewarding, and it fills my home with the most delightful aroma. If you’re not sure how to get started, you’re in the right place! Let me take you through the steps and help you create a delicious bean dish that you’ll love.

Choosing the Right Beans

First things first, picking the right beans is crucial. There are so many varieties to choose from, like black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans. Each type has its unique flavor and texture, so you can choose based on what you like best. I usually stick to black beans for their rich taste or chickpeas for their versatility. After selecting your beans, make sure to rinse them thoroughly. This step is important as it helps remove any dirt or debris.

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Preparing the Beans

Next up is soaking—or not soaking! I’ve tried both methods, and I find that soaking beans overnight can cut down on cooking time. However, using the slow cooker means you can skip this step if you’re short on time. Just remember that if you decide to soak them, don’t forget to drain and rinse before cooking! Now, let’s move on to the fun part:

  1. Rinse and sort your dried beans to remove any unwanted pieces.
  2. Soak them overnight (optional) for quicker cooking.
  3. Place the beans in the slow cooker.
  4. Add in flavor: You can toss in diced onions, garlic, or spices like cumin for extra taste.
  5. Pour in enough water or broth to fully cover the beans.
  6. Set your slow cooker on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 4 to 5 hours, depending on how much time you have.
  7. Check for tenderness and season with salt towards the end of cooking, as adding salt too early can toughen the beans.
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That’s it! How simple is that? I love how versatile the beans turn out, and you can use them in so many dishes afterward.

Adding Flavor and Variations

Now, let’s talk about adding some pizzazz to your beans! While cooking them plain is perfectly acceptable, I love to throw in extras that pack a punch. Sometimes, I add in diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or even a splash of hot sauce for those who like a bit of heat. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices! The possibilities are endless, and the slow cooker really lets those flavors meld together beautifully.

Enjoying the Finished Dish

Once the cooking time is up, it’s time to dig in! I love serving my beans over rice or using them as a filling for tacos. Not to mention, they also make an amazing dip when blended with spices. The best part? You can store leftovers in the fridge for a few days or freeze them for later. They make for a quick meal on busy days!

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Cooking dried beans in a slow cooker is not just easy, but it also yields a nutritious and budget-friendly meal. Plus, the satisfaction of preparing something from scratch is hard to beat. I hope these tips help you answer the question: How Do I Cook Dried Beans In A Slow Cooker? So grab your slow cooker, and let’s get cooking!

FAQs

1. Do I need to soak dried beans before cooking them?
Soaking is optional! It can reduce cooking time, but if you forget, you can still cook them without soaking.

2. Can I use the slow cooker without rinsing the beans?
It’s best to rinse the beans to get rid of any impurities. Slightly rinsing helps ensure a clean taste.

3. How do I know when the beans are cooked?
Once the beans are tender and easy to mash with a fork, they are ready to enjoy! Just keep checking periodically.

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