Beans (dried)

[theabsinthefairy]

I love dried beans too, I dry my own broad and borlotti beans without any troubles, no weevils or mould (touch wood).

I just wish they were as cheap to buy in France as in the UK, here a decent 500g net of dried beans costs between 3 and 4 € depending on the sort of bean. I use dried split peas and lentils a lot, as well as chick peas, which are a great addition to curries and stews.

I usually cook up a batch of lentils and then take a scoop out and reheat with some bacon or some garlic and herbs for my lunch time meal. One batch will normally last me 4 days.

I bought some UK stew mix out to France with me, but it has now run out, and a shame because it was great, bits of pearl barley, pasta and peas.

[homefire]

I am mad on pulses/legumes here too. Dahl, chili made with kidney beans, lentil bolagnaisey stuff for pasta, chickpea patties, dips. I have just finished reading Diet for a Small Planet actually and think it has a lot of food for thought but my resources for recipes seem to be better than those of 1970's America. When it comes down to it most cultures have great staple dishes which combine foods for complete protein and I have to say that American Style cookery can sometimes be an aquired taste for me. HAving said that cornbread is a favourite at the moment- I just omit the sugar.
I love my pressure cooker for beans actually. Cuts cooking time down by at least half and soaking isn't needed. I don't know how anyone who eats a lot of beans and wholegrains does without one...
Anyone else use one?

I do use a pressure cooker and really love it Chili is a favorite dish here at home and there are a million ways to prepare it. My grandmother once made rattlesnake chili (grandfather found it lurking under the truck, dispatched it and skinned it). But beans make the dish! Cornbread is one of my favorites. I don't put sugar in mine either .