Slow Cooker Beans

Let’s get right into it! Beans from a slow cooker are incredibly versatile. They can be the star of the show, or they can complement various dishes like a good sidekick in an action movie. These tasty legumes pair beautifully with rice, cornbread, or even as a filling in tacos.

Toss them into salads to boost protein or layer them into enchiladas. Sprinkle them over a baked potato. The options are limitless! So grab your apron, and let’s dive in!

The Beauty of Cooking Beans in a Slow Cooker

Beans were a staple for centuries, providing a rich source of protein, fiber, and carbohydrates. It’s hard to beat the simplicity of this dish. You throw in some ingredients, set the timer, and let the slow cooker work its magic. But what about the flavor and texture? Join me on this culinary adventure, where I’ll guide you through the delightful experience of making beans in a slow cooker.

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What are Beans in a Slow Cooker?

Cooking beans in a slow cooker is a straightforward process. It involves soaking the beans (if needed), adding your chosen ingredients, and allowing them to cook over low heat for several hours. This method yields tender, flavorful beans without requiring constant attention. You have time to go about your day without worrying about burning anything.

Why use a slow cooker? Well, slow cooking enhances the depth of flavor, allowing spices and herbs to mingle and create a rich, savory dish. Infusing the cooking liquid and beans with the essence of garlic, onion, and herbs transforms these humble legumes into something remarkable.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Beans in a Slow Cooker?

What sets my slow cooker beans apart? It’s all in the details. First, I take the time to carefully choose ingredients that bolster flavor and health benefits. The addition of Worcestershire sauce or tamari provides umami, which elevates the beans beyond the ordinary. Secondly, I incorporate spices like smoked paprika and thyme, offering warmth and subtle complexity. Plus, you can always customize the spices to cater to your palate.

Unlike a typical bean recipe, which might miss out on seasoning, this approach ensures robust flavor throughout. By using high-quality ingredients, we promise every bite is satisfying.

How Does It Taste?

The taste of beans cooked slowly is something special. Imagine a combination of warmth, earthiness, and subtle sweetness melding together. Depending on your spice journey, you might find a smoky finish or a hint of herbal notes tickling your taste buds. Every component plays its part in creating a tasteful symphony that complements a wide range of other dishes.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish

Let’s stock up. Here’s what you’ll need for slow cooker beans:

16 ounces (1 lb) dried beans: Choose any variety that tickles your fancy.
8 cups (1892 ml) water: Or low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth for added richness.
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: For a touch of savory umami.
1 tablespoon finely minced garlic: Can you ever have too much garlic?
1 tablespoon powdered onion: For depth and sweetness.
1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances flavors without overpowering.
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: A must for an extra kick.
1/4 teaspoon baking soda: This helps in softening the beans.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Adds a nice smoky flavor.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional): If you enjoy a hint of earthiness.
Any other herbs and spices you like (optional): Customize away!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

Start by rinsing your dried beans under cold water. This step removes any dust or debris. If you’re using beans that require soaking (like kidney or navy beans), soak them overnight in plenty of water. If you prefer a quicker option, use the quick soak method by boiling them for five minutes and leaving them to sit in hot water for an hour.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Once your beans are ready, it’s time to combine everything. In the slow cooker, add the rinsed beans, the water or broth, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, powdered onion, sea salt, and black pepper. Don’t forget the baking soda and any optional spices. Give everything a good stir to mix the ingredients well.

Step 3: Set the Slow Cooker

Secure the lid on the slow cooker. Set it to low heat and let it cook for 6 to 8 hours. If you’re in a hurry, high heat for 3 to 4 hours works, but let’s be real—you won’t get that slow-cooked flavor if you rush.

Step 4: Check for Doneness

After your cooking time, check if the beans are tender. They should easily mash between your fingers or on a plate. If they still feel too firm for your liking, give them a little more time.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the beans are done, they’re ready to star in their culinary adventure. Serve them in a bowl topped with some fresh herbs. Add a splash of oil if desired, and dig in!

Tips & Tricks On Making Beans in a Slow Cooker

Soaking is Key: It’s often recommended to soak beans to enhance digestibility and decrease cooking time. Skip this step if you’re short on time, but remember that soaking helps to soften beans.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other ingredients like chopped onions, bell peppers, or even diced tomatoes. Each element brings its own layer of flavor.
Don’t Skip the Baking Soda: While it might seem odd, a touch of baking soda helps soften the beans. Especially if you’re dealing with hard water!
Store Leftovers Wisely: If you have extra beans, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll last 3 to 5 days, or you can freeze them. They are a lifesaver for quick meals!
Flavor Boost After Cooking: Sometimes after cooking, the beans may need a little extra seasoning. Taste them and adjust before serving. A little more salt or spice can make a huge difference!

Nutrition Information

Each serving of beans is chock-full of nutritional benefits. They’re high in protein and fiber while being low in fat. You’ll find numerous essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, and potassium. This makes beans a power player in a healthy diet.

Per Serving (based on a recipe serving 8):

Calories: 200
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Dietary Fiber: 10g
Total Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Sodium: Varies based on salt and broth

How Do I Store This Dish?

If you’ve made too much (which usually happens when you cook beans), don’t fret!

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Beans taste even better the next day as flavors meld.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze them in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Consider portioning them for easy defrosting.
Thawing: When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or warm them straight from the freezer. Just give them a stir with a little added water while reheating.

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Beans in a Slow Cooker?

If you want to switch things up a bit or use what you have on hand, here are some options:

Canned Beans: Yes, save yourself time! If short on dried beans, use two cans of your favorite beans. Rinse them well and adjust the cooking time to an hour or two to heat through.
Vegetable Broth: Instead of water, try vegetable or chicken broth to swap flavor; this adds depth without needing more ingredients.
Tomato Sauce: Want a new twist? Substitute part of the liquid with tomato sauce. It adds a delightful richness.
Herbs: Use fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a fresher taste, added at the end of cooking to maintain their bright color.
Sauces: Have a favorite hot sauce? Throw a splash in at the end for some zing!

Pamela Dunlap

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 6

Total Time 6 5

Servings: 7

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 200

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

16 ounces 1 lb dried beans: Choose any variety that tickles your fancy.
8 cups 1892 ml water: Or low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth for added richness.
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: For a touch of savory umami.
1 tablespoon finely minced garlic: Can you ever have too much garlic?
1 tablespoon powdered onion: For depth and sweetness.
1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances flavors without overpowering.
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: A must for an extra kick.
1/4 teaspoon baking soda: This helps in softening the beans.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional: Adds a nice smoky flavor.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme optional: If you enjoy a hint of earthiness.
Any other herbs and spices you like optional: Customize away!

Equipment

Slow Cooker

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

Start by rinsing your dried beans under cold water. This step removes any dust or debris. If you’re using beans that require soaking (like kidney or navy beans), soak them overnight in plenty of water. If you prefer a quicker option, use the quick soak method by boiling them for five minutes and leaving them to sit in hot water for an hour.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Once your beans are ready, it’s time to combine everything. In the slow cooker, add the rinsed beans, the water or broth, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, powdered onion, sea salt, and black pepper. Don’t forget the baking soda and any optional spices. Give everything a good stir to mix the ingredients well.

Step 3: Set the Slow Cooker

Secure the lid on the slow cooker. Set it to low heat and let it cook for 6 to 8 hours. If you’re in a hurry, high heat for 3 to 4 hours works, but let’s be real—you won’t get that slow-cooked flavor if you rush.

Step 4: Check for Doneness

After your cooking time, check if the beans are tender. They should easily mash between your fingers or on a plate. If they still feel too firm for your liking, give them a little more time.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the beans are done, they’re ready to star in their culinary adventure. Serve them in a bowl topped with some fresh herbs. Add a splash of oil if desired, and dig in!

Nutrition

Calories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 12gFat: 1gFiber: 10g

Notes

Soaking is Key: It’s often recommended to soak beans to enhance digestibility and decrease cooking time. Skip this step if you’re short on time, but remember that soaking helps to soften beans.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other ingredients like chopped onions, bell peppers, or even diced tomatoes. Each element brings its own layer of flavor.
Don’t Skip the Baking Soda: While it might seem odd, a touch of baking soda helps soften the beans. Especially if you’re dealing with hard water!
Store Leftovers Wisely: If you have extra beans, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll last 3 to 5 days, or you can freeze them. They are a lifesaver for quick meals!
Flavor Boost After Cooking: Sometimes after cooking, the beans may need a little extra seasoning. Taste them and adjust before serving. A little more salt or spice can make a huge difference!

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I have to soak the beans overnight?

No, soaking is not strictly necessary, but it can significantly reduce cooking times and make beans easier to digest. If you’re using smaller beans, you might even skip soaking altogether.

2. What is the cooking time for dried vs. canned beans?

Dried beans generally take 6-8 hours on low heat in a slow cooker. Canned beans only need to be heated through, so 1-2 hours on low should suffice.

3. Can I use frozen beans?

Certainly! You can cook dried beans straight from frozen, but they will need a longer cooking time. If you happen to have leftover cooked beans, feel free to toss them in at the end just to warm.

4. Is it safe to leave the slow cooker on while I’m not home?

Yes, slow cookers are designed for safe cooking over extended periods. However, do read the manufacturer’s instructions for any safety guidelines.

Conclusion

Cooking beans in a slow cooker is not just about food; it’s about enjoyment and convenience. Affordable, healthy, and delicious, beans can elevate your culinary game. The satisfaction that comes from nurturing straightforward ingredients into a flavorful dish is immeasurable.

So next time you’re considering a meal, remember the humble slow cooker and the beans that await within. Embrace the process, savor the flavors, and share your creations with others. Adventures in cooking can lead to unexpected delights, and I guarantee you’ll find your new favorite dish with this method. And who knows, maybe the humble bean will become the hero of your kitchen too! Happy cooking!

Slow Cooker Beans – Whisk Guide