Instant Pot Dried Beans
If you love to add beans to your family meals and own an Instant Pot then you will love this blog post. Today I am sharing everything you need to know about cooking dried beans in the Instant Pot. I’m also sharing my Instant Pot beans cook times chart or cheat sheet which has the cooking times for both dried and soaked beans. I’m sure you’ll find this Instant Pot cheat sheet super useful! Happy cooking!
Why You’ll Love Instant Pot Dried Beans
- No Soaking Required: Instant Pot eliminates the need for overnight soaking of beans.
- Time Efficient: Cook dried beans to perfection in a fraction of usual time.
- Versatile Ingredient: These beans can be used in numerous dishes, from salads to stews.
Why Cook Dry Beans?
Cooking dry beans instead of buying canned beans can be a cost-effective way to feed your family. Dried beans are also healthier, as they often have more vitamins and minerals than the canned variety.
Are Cooked Dried Beans Healthy?
Yes. Cooking dried beans is a healthy and nutritious way to get your daily dose of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Plus, it can be cost effective as well!
Dried beans are also a great source of antioxidants which help reduce inflammation in the body. So not only are they delicious, but they’re also good for you!
Tender beans not only fill you up, they are packed with protein which is great for muscle building, for bariatric patients and for anyone wanting to feel fuller for longer.
Cooking Instant Pot Bean Recipes
We love to eat beans in my home, I especially love red Kidney Beans, Chickpeas and Lentils.
Here at The Instant Pot Table, you’ll find some great Instant Pot pressure cooker recipes from Instant Pot Black Beans to Refried Beans (you cook pinto beans first) to fresh beans (Instant Pot Green Beans) and more!
How to Cook Beans in the Instant Pot
When cooking beans in the Instant Pot there are a few rules and tips you need to follow.
- Don’t overfill the pot.
- Make sure you use enough liquid.
Beans expand once they are soaked and cooked. It is super important to make sure you leave plenty of space in your inner pot for soaking and cooking your beans.
To avoid an overflow and having liquid squirt out of the pot, make sure you only fill your pot at half capacity.
When cooking your beans make sure you have plenty of water and liquid to cover the beans. Most cooked beans need 3-4 times as much cooking liquid when it comes to the beans and water ratio. That’s the rule of thumb that I follow. Lentils however require much less liquid than other beans.
Do I Need to Soak Beans Before Cooking in the Pressure Cooker?
You do not have to soak all beans before cooking in the Instant Pot. However if you wish to do so you can. Instant pot dried beans no soak taste just as good as soaked instant pot beans.
Dry beans can be soaked in water for a few hours before cooking. Soaking beans helps remove some of the starches that can make them hard to digest. If you choose to soak your beans add half a teaspoon of baking soda, its a great tip and helps with the soaking process.
The only beans that must be soaked are Kidney beans as they can contain toxic levels of a chemical called Phytohemagglutinin. Soaking reduces the level of this toxin making them safe to consume.
Cooking Delicious Instant Pot Bean Recipe
I’ll now share a delicious Instant Pot Bean Recipe that you may love! It’s my popularInstant Pot Chicken and Butterbean Soup which is zero points on the Weight Watchers plan!
This tasty recipe is so yummy and my family love it!
Do You Cook Instant Pot Beans in Water or Vegetable Broth?
You can add the required cups of water to Instant Pot dried beans, however I prefer to use vegetable stock as it adds depth and flavor to my beans.
Dry Beans Cooking Times vs Soaked Beans Cooking Time
Here are the best cooking times from dry or from soaked for perfectly tender beans:
Instant Pot Adzuki Beans
Dried Adzuki Beans Instant Pot cooking time: 16-20 minutes.
Soaked Adzuki Beans Instant Pot cooking time: 4-6 minutes.
Adzuki beans are small, reddish-brown beans commonly used in Asian cuisines, particularly in desserts. They have a slightly sweet flavor and a soft texture. Adzuki beans are great for making sweet bean paste, red bean soup, and as fillings in pastries and dumplings.
Adzuki beans require a liquid-to-bean ratio of approximately 3 cups of water or broth per 1 cup of dried beans when pressure cooking.
Instant Pot Anasazi Beans
Dried Anasazi Beans Instant Pot cooking time: 20-125 minutes.
Soaked Anasazi Beans Instant Pot cooking time: 5-7 minutes.
Anasazi beans are native to the Southwestern United States and are similar to pinto beans in flavor and texture. They have a rich, earthy flavor and are popular in dishes like chili, stews, and salads.
Anasazi beans require a liquid-to-bean ratio of approximately 3 cups of water or broth per 1 cup of dried beans when pressure cooking.
Instant Pot Black Beans
Dried Black Beans Instant Pot cooking time: 20-25 minutes.
Soaked Black Beans Instant Pot cooking time: 4-6 minutes.
Black beans are a staple in Latin American cuisine. They have a creamy texture and a slightly sweet, earthy flavor. Black beans are used in various dishes such as soups, stews, burritos, and salads.
Black beans require a liquid-to-bean ratio of approximately 3 cups of water or broth per 1 cup of dried beans when pressure cooking.
Instant Pot Black-Eyed Peas
Dried Black-Eyed-Peas Instant Pot cooking time: 6-7 minutes.
Soaked Black-Eyed-Peas Instant Pot cooking time: 4-5 minutes.
Black-eyed peas, also known as cowpeas, are small, white beans with a distinctive black spot. They have a mild, nutty flavor and a firm texture. Black-eyed peas are often used in Southern and African cuisines, particularly in dishes like Hoppin’ John, soups, and salads.
Black-eyed peas require a liquid-to-bean ratio of approximately 4 cups of water or broth per 1 cup of dried beans when pressure cooking.
Instant Pot Chickpeas or Garbanzo Beans
Dried Chickpeas Instant Pot cooking time: 35-40 minutes.
Soaked Chickpeas Instant Pot cooking time: 10-15 minutes.
Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are widely used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. They have a nutty flavor and a firm, creamy texture. Chickpeas are the main ingredient in dishes like hummus, falafel, and stews like chana masala.
I prefer a dried garbanzo beans instant pot recipe to soaked!
Chickpeas require a liquid-to-bean ratio of approximately 3 cups of water or broth per 1 cup of dried beans when pressure cooking.
For dried garbanzo beans, use the same liquid-to-bean ratio as dried chickpeas.
Instant Pot Cannellini Beans
Dried Canellini Beans Instant Pot cooking time : 25-30 minutes.
Soaked Canellini Beans Instant Pot cooking time: 6-9 minutes.
Cannellini beans, also known as white kidney beans, have a creamy texture and a mild, nutty flavor. They are commonly used in Italian cuisine, particularly in dishes like pasta e fagioli, minestrone soup, and bean salads.
Cannellini beans require a liquid-to-bean ratio of approximately 3 cups of water or broth per 1 cup of dried beans when pressure cooking.
Instant Pot Gandules
Dried Gandules Beans Instant Pot cooking time 20-25 minutes.
Soaked Gandules Beans Instant Pot cooking time: 6-9 minutes.
Gandules, also known as pigeon peas, are a staple in Caribbean and Latin American cuisines. They have a slightly nutty and earthy flavor with a soft texture. Gandules are used in dishes such as arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas), soups, and stews.
Gandules require a liquid-to-bean ratio of approximately 3 cups of water or broth per 1 cup of dried beans when pressure cooking
Instant Pot Great Northern Beans
Dried Great Northern Beans Instant Pot cooking time : 25-30 minutes.
Soaked Great Northern Beans Instant Pot cooking time : 6-9 minutes.
Note: Adding a bay leaf to the pot is recommended.
Great Northern beans are large, white beans with a delicate flavor and creamy texture. They are commonly used in soups, stews, and casseroles. Great Northern beans pair well with herbs, spices, and vegetables, making them versatile for various recipes.
Great Northern beans require a liquid-to-bean ratio of approximately 3 cups of water or broth per 1 cup of dried beans when pressure cooking.
Instant Pot Lentils French Green
- Dried Lentils Instant Pot cooking time: 4-6 minutes.
- No soaked lentil Instant Pot cooking required.
French green lentils, also known as Puy lentils, are small and dark green with a peppery and earthy flavor. They hold their shape well when cooked, making them suitable for salads, side dishes, and hearty soups. French green lentils are commonly used in French cuisine.
French green lentils require a liquid-to-lentil ratio of approximately 1.5 cups of water or broth per 1 cup of dried lentils when pressure cooking.
Instant Pot Lentils Brown
Dried Brown Lentil sInstant Pot cooking time: 4-6 minutes.
No soaked lentil Instant Pot cooking required.
Brown lentils have a mild and earthy flavor with a soft texture. They are versatile and can be used in soups, stews, curries, and salads. Brown lentils are widely available and cook relatively quickly compared to other varieties.
Brown lentils require a liquid-to-lentil ratio of approximately 2 cups of water or broth per 1 cup of dried lentils when pressure cooking.
Instant Pot Lentils Red Split
Dried Red Lentils Instant Pot Cooking Time:1-2 minutes.
No soaked lentil Instant Pot cooking time required.
Red split lentils cook quickly and break down easily, resulting in a soft and creamy texture. They have a mild and slightly sweet flavor. Red split lentils are commonly used in Indian dal, soups, and purees.
Yellow split lentils require a liquid-to-lentil ratio of approximately 1.5 cups of water or broth per 1 cup of dried lentils when pressure cooking.
Instant Pot Lentils Yellow Split
Dried Yellow Split Lentils Instant Pot cooking time: 1-2 minutes.
No soaked lentil Instant Pot cooking time required.
Yellow split lentils, also known as moong dal, have a mild and slightly sweet flavor. They cook quickly and become soft and creamy. Yellow split lentils are used in Indian cuisine for dal, soups, and various dishes.
Yellow split lentils require a liquid-to-lentil ratio of approximately 1.5 cups of water or broth per 1 cup of dried lentils when pressure cooking.
Instant Pot Lima Beans
Dried Lima Beans Instant Pot cooking time: 12-14 minutes.
Soaked Lima Beans Instant Pot cooking time: 3-6 minutes.
Lima beans, also known as butter beans, have a creamy texture and a slightly sweet, buttery flavor. They are often used in soups, stews, and casseroles. Lima beans are a good source of protein and fiber.
Lima beans require a liquid-to-bean ratio of approximately 4 cups of water or broth per 1 cup of dried beans when pressure cooking.
Instant Pot Kidney Beans Red
Dried Kidney Beans Instant Pot cooking time: 15-20 minutes.
Soaked Kidney Beans Instant Pot cooking time: 7-8 minutes.
Red kidney beans are large and kidney-shaped with a robust, earthy flavor. They are commonly used in chili, bean soups, and stews. Red kidney beans are popular in many cuisines, including Mexican, Caribbean, and American.
Red kidney beans require a liquid-to-bean ratio of approximately 4 cups of water or broth per 1 cup of dried beans when pressure cooking.
Instant Pot Haricot Beans
Dried Haricot Beans Instant Pot cooking time: 20-25 minutes.
Soaked Haricot Beans Instant Pot cooking time: 7-8 minutes.
Haricot beans, also known as navy beans, have a delicate flavor and a creamy texture. They are commonly used in baked beans, stews, and casseroles. Haricot beans are a good source of dietary fiber and protein.
Haricot beans require a liquid-to-bean ratio of approximately 3 cups of water or broth per 1 cup of dried beans when pressure cooking.
Instant Pot Pinto Beans
Dried Pinto Beans Instant Pot cooking time: 23-25 minutes.
Soaked Pinto Beans Instant Pot cooking time: 6-9 minutes.
Note: Great for making refried beans!
Pinto beans have a mottled beige and brown appearance with a creamy texture and a slightly nutty flavor. They are commonly used in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisines, including dishes like refried beans, chili, and burritos.
Pinto beans require a liquid-to-bean ratio of approximately 3 cups of water or broth per 1 cup of dried beans when pressure cooking.
Instant Pot Peas
Dried Peas Instant Pot cooking time: 16-20 minutes.
Soaked Peas Instant Pot cooking time : 10-12 minutes.
Peas, such as green peas or yellow peas, have a sweet and delicate flavor. They are often used in soups, stews, and side dishes. Peas are a versatile legume that can be enjoyed in various recipes.
Peas require a liquid-to-bean ratio of approximately 4 cups of water or broth per 1 cup of dried beans when pressure cooking.
Instant Pot Soy Beans
Dried Instant Pot Soy beans cooking time: 35-45 minutes.
Soaked Instant Pot Soy beans cooking time: 18-20 minutes.
Soybeans, also known as edamame, are young and green soybeans that are commonly boiled or steamed and served as a snack or appetizer. They have a mild, buttery flavor and are a good source of protein and fiber.
Soybeans require a liquid-to-bean ratio of approximately 4 cups of water per 1 cup of dried beans when pressure cooking.
What Instant Pot Recipes Can I Add Beans To?
There are lots of recipes you can add beans to from Vegetarian Chili to Instant Pot Taco Soup or Instant Pot Red Beans and Rice. I also love this Instant Pot Minestrone Soupwhich is packed with tasty cooked beans.
Beans are great when you’re on a budget and looking for meatless recipes or simply for high protein dishes. The possibilities are endless! Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and combinations in the kitchen.
Making Hummus With Chickpeas
One of my favorite recipes to make using chickpeas is Hummus. You can cook chickpeas in the Instant Pot before making a selection of hummus flavors. We have two hummus recipes you may love to try:
Try this Creamy Instant Pot Hummus with Garlic and Lemon. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and a great appetizer for parties.
You’ll also love this Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe. Pressure cooking has never been more fun!
Making Rice and Beans in the Instant Pot
Instant Pot rice and beans is a great way to get more protein and fiber into your diet. We like to cook black beans, add a little chili powder and cumin and then combine with Mexican rice on tortilla bread! Black beans and Spanish rice are great on burritos!
We also love to add cooked pinto beans to rice, it makes a great pinto bean recipe and always tastes great!
Do You Natural Pressure Release Beans?
Yes, I usually let the pressure release naturally when cooking beans in the electric pressure cooker. This prevents the liquid from spewing out of the top of my pot when doing a quick release.
Can You Store Cooked Beans?
Yes you can store cooked beans! You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Make sure you store them with their cooking liquid so they don’t dry out.
Why Wont My Beans Soften in Instant Pot?
There are a few reasons why your pressure cooker beans may not cook perfectly:
Insufficient Soaking Time:
If you’re using dried beans, they typically need to be soaked before cooking to help soften them. If you didn’t soak the beans for an adequate amount of time, they may not soften completely during the cooking process. Soaking times can vary depending on the type and size of beans, but generally, overnight soaking (8-12 hours) is recommended.
Hard Water:
The mineral content in hard water can affect the cooking process of beans and make them harder to soften. Using filtered or soft water can help improve the results.
Old Beans:
If your beans are too old, they may have lost their moisture and become harder to soften. It’s best to use relatively fresh beans for optimal results.
Cooking Time Not Sufficient:
The cooking time recommended for a specific type of bean may not be sufficient in your Instant Pot. You might need to extend the cooking time to ensure the beans reach the desired level of tenderness. Factors such as altitude and the specific model of Instant Pot you’re using can also impact cooking times.
Seasonings and Acidic Ingredients:
Adding acidic ingredients like tomatoes, vinegar, or lemon juice during the cooking process can interfere with the beans’ ability to soften. It’s better to add these ingredients after the beans have fully cooked.
Pressure Release Method:
The natural pressure release (NPR) method allows the pressure to decrease gradually, which can help ensure the beans are evenly cooked and tender. If you’re using a quick pressure release (QPR) method, the sudden release of pressure may affect the bean’s texture and result in them being firmer.
By considering these factors and adjusting your cooking techniques accordingly, you can improve the chances of achieving perfectly softened beans in your Instant Pot.
How to Use Leftover Cooked Beans
Once you have cooked your favorite beans in the Instant Pot you may be wondering what to do with the leftovers. Well, here are some great ideas for using leftover cooked beans:
- Add them to soups and stews.
- Make a delicious bean salad.
- Create amazing homemade veggie burgers.
- Use as a topping on tacos or burritos.
- Mix with rice and vegetables for a hearty side dish.
- Make an easy dip or hummus.
- Use as a topping on salads, pizzas, toast, eggs and more!
- Blend them into smoothies for added nutrition.
Useful Instant Pot Articles
I hope this article on Instant Pot Dried Beans: How To Cook Dried Beans In An Instant Pot was helpful! From the basics of how to cook beans in an Instant Pot, to a delicious bean recipe and tips on using leftover cooked beans, I’m sure you found lots of useful information here today.
Here are some super useful instant Pot articles to help you with your Instant Pot journey.
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Thank You 🙏
I have not got one on the blog yet but will add it to my list of recipes to work on.
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