beans

in order to actively move toward being zero-waste, i decided to buy dried beans + peas in bulk.  i wasn't exactly sure i'd love taking the time to cook them, but i was certain i wanted to reduce the waste i was producing by buying them in cans or plastic bags. i thought i'd share how i work these items into my real life.

it is not at all difficult to rehydrate these tasty sources of protein, but it does take a little time.  beans + chickpeas are best soaked overnight (or for a couple of hours in the morning) and then need around 1 1/2 - 2 hours to simmer.  they do not need to be stirred, so it is mostly hands off time when i  just need to be home to make sure no accidents happen. (they could probably be made in a crock-pot...and certainly in a pressure cooker, but i don't have either one of those.)

i stock 2 types of beans/peas at a time.  when i make my weekly menu, i note which ones i will need.  often there are already a few jars in the freezer, but if not i take the time to schedule soaking + cooking them in my planner.  that way, i don't accidentally forget to have them ready when i need them.  by then, it's too late.  i usually just pick a day when i'll be at home a bunch of the morning to cook them, let them cool, and put them in jars. here's the great part though:  i cook up my whole jar full of dried beans at one time and have lots + lots of smaller jars of cooked beans to use and freeze.  that's one cooking time for lots of meals worth of beans.  when i make the next week's menu, i can make use of my already cooked beans.  

i've been doing this for a few years now, and it really is not a burden at all.  i'm not always so great at thinking about a lot of things all at once, so i need to write down when to make them.  that is the key for me.  planning really is key to moving toward zero-waste and also healthy eating. with my beans in the freezer, i feel like i have convenience food at home (no drive-thru necessary)!  i cannot tell you how many times i think to myself, "i love me right now!" as i pull them out of the freezer!  :)

when short on time dried black-eyed peas and lentils are great, because they cook up in about the time it takes to cook rice.  they can even be cooked in the same pot.

go get yourself some love...from yourself!  :)

love, 
jane

p.s. this is quite cost effective too!