How to Rehydrate Kidney Beans

If you prefer a gas-free bean, use the gas-free soak hydration method.

Preparing for the Soak, All Methods

1. Pick through the dried beans, removing shriveled beans or foreign matter, such as small rocks.

2. Add 10 cups of water to a stockpot.

3. Measure out 1 pound of dried kidney beans.

Slow Soak

1. Add the beans to the stockpot with water.

2. Cover the pot.

3. Place in the pot in the refrigerator, and let it set overnight, or for 6 to 8 hours.

4. Pour out the water, and rinse beans with fresh water.

Hot Soak

1. Place the stockpot on the stove, and bring the water to a boil.

2. Add the beans to the boiling water.

3. Bring the water to a boil for a second time, and then remove the pot from the heat.

4. Cover the stockpot tightly, and set at room temperature for 2 to 3 hours.

5. Pour out the water, and rinse the beans with fresh water.

Quick Soak

1. Place the stockpot on the stove, and bring the water to a boil.

2. Add the beans to the boiling water.

3. Bring the water to a boil again, and boil for 3 more minutes.

4. Cover the stockpot tightly, and set at room temperature for 1 hour.

5. Pour out the water, and rinse the beans with fresh water.

Gas-Free Soak

1. Place the stockpot on the stove, and bring the water to a boil.

2. Add the beans to the boiling water.

3. Bring the water to a boil again, and boil for 3 more minutes.

4. Cover the stockpot tightly, and set at room temperature overnight. According to the Mayo Clinic, up to 90 percent of the gas causing indigestible sugars will dissolve into the water.

5. Pour out the water, and rinse the beans with fresh water.

Things You Will Need

• Stockpot
• Water
• Dried kidney beans

Show More

Check out this related video from Homesteady on Youtube.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Beans and Other Legumes: Types and cooking tips
• Utah State University: Dried Beans and Peas

Show More

Photo Credits

red kidney beans image by GeoM from Fotolia.com

red kidney beans image by GeoM from Fotolia.com

Show More