Serious question, I'm not sold on dry beans being the budget hero everyone claims

Sure, dry beans are cheap per pound, but with the soak time and fuel to cook them, I wonder if canned beans might actually save more in the long run when you factor in time and energy costs. On one hand, dry beans are pennies per serving, but on the other, canned beans are ready in minutes and might prevent you from ordering takeout on a busy night. I've had both sit in my pantry for weeks because I couldn't be bothered with the prep. Anyone else crunch the numbers or feel this way?

3 comments

3 Comments

fiona9852mo ago

Honestly, batch cooking dry beans in something like an instant pot cuts the fuel and active time way down. Tbh the texture and flavor are just better than most canned ones, which can be weirdly salty. That big pot lasts all week for way less money than even the cheapest cans.

blair_webb2mo ago

Yeah, but you're forgetting the time it takes to sort and soak them first. After a long day, opening a can is just easier. The salt in canned beans rinses right off, and the texture works fine for soups or chili where they cook down anyway. For me, the extra hour of work isn't worth the small savings.

alex_wilson792mo ago

Totally get where Blair_webb is coming from with the after-work can opener life. My last batch of beans? Forgot to soak them. Tried the quick soak method, got distracted, boiled over. Had to clean the stove while eating cold cereal for dinner. The flavor is better, but my follow-through is a joke. Still have a can in the cupboard for my next kitchen fail.