There’s something irresistibly comforting about a warm bowl of Instant Pot Beans. Their creamy, tender texture and savory flavors make them a perfect addition to any meal, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a busy weeknight dinner. Did you know that beans are one of the oldest cultivated crops in the world? That’s right! They’ve been a staple in diets across cultures for millennia. Preparing beans in an Instant Pot is not only a time-saver, but it also infuses them with a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.

If you love our popular recipe for hearty chili, you’re going to adore these Instant Pot Beans! Just imagine the symphony of savory goodness as fragrant spices blend together, offering a guilt-free culinary experience. Get ready to explore a world of flavor with this versatile dish that’s sure to wow your family and friends!

What are Instant Pot Beans?

So, if you’re wondering about the name, let’s clear this up: Instant Pot Beans are simply a convenient and quick way to prepare beans using a pressure cooker. Isn’t it funny how something so simple can have such a sophisticated name? They save you from hours of soaking and boiling water, while still delivering that delightful, home-cooked taste. And hey, remember the saying, ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach’? Well, with these beans, you could win over anyone’s taste buds!

Imagine sitting down with a comforting bowl of these beans, feeling that satisfying warmth spread through you. You’ll want to make this dish again and again – trust me on this one!

Why You’ll Love These Instant Pot Beans

First and foremost, Instant Pot Beans make a fantastic main dish that is both filling and heart-healthy. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, they’re a guilt-free choice that can star in your weekly meals. Say goodbye to expensive take-out and hello to savings! Cooking at home not only reduces your food expenses but also lets you customize every aspect of the dish.

And don’t even get me started on the toppings! Picture a dollop of creamy avocado, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, or a drizzle of zesty lime juice nestled atop your beans. It’s the perfect canvas to elevate your meal, reminiscent of a spicy bean stew, yet unique in its own cozy way. So grab your Instant Pot and let’s dive into this flavorful adventure!

How to Make Instant Pot Beans

Quick Overview

Making Instant Pot Beans is a breeze! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious, satisfying dish ready in under an hour. The beans become wonderfully tender, bursting with flavor, while the onions and garlic meld into the mix to create a comforting base. The total preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of around 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of dried beans (e.g., black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans)
• 4 cups of water or vegetable broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: spices (e.g., cumin, oregano) and vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beans: If you’ve got the time, soak your dried beans overnight for easier cooking. However, if you’re in a hurry, skip this step and go straight to cooking them in the Instant Pot!
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Turn on your Instant Pot and select the ‘Sauté’ function. Add a drizzle of oil and toss in the chopped onions. Cook for about 3 minutes until they become translucent. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, allowing those delicious aromas to fill your kitchen.
3. Add the Beans: Next, add the soaked or unsoaked beans to the pot. Pour in the water or broth and stir to combine.
4. Season: Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any optional spices you may want to add.
5. Cook Under Pressure: Close the lid of your Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ function and set the timer for 30 minutes.
6. Natural Release: Once cooking is completed, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes before carefully performing a quick release for any remaining steam.
7. Serve: Open the lid and give everything a good stir. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Your Instant Pot Beans are ready to be enjoyed!

Top Tips for Perfecting Instant Pot Beans

• Substitutions: Feel free to mix and match your beans! Want to use chickpeas? Go for it! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of beans you’re using. Smaller beans like lentils will cook faster, while larger varieties may need a bit more time.
• Timing: If you’re using unsoaked beans, the cooking time will be slightly longer. Remember, soaked beans typically require less cooking time.
• Avoiding Mistakes: Be mindful of not overfilling the Instant Pot. Beans expand while cooking, so make sure to stay below the maximum fill line. If you’re nervous about pressure cooking, consider trying half a batch the first time around.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you’ve made a big batch of Instant Pot Beans, you’re in luck! They store beautifully in the refrigerator for about 4 to 5 days. Just keep them in an airtight container to retain their flavor. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months, making this dish perfect for meal prep.

When it’s time to reheat, simply transfer the portion back into the Instant Pot or a saucepan on the stove. Add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist and reheat on low until warmed through.

In conclusion, Instant Pot Beans are not only delicious but also an economical and wholesome option for any meal. Elevate your cooking with this dish that brings both comfort and satisfaction. So why wait? Dive in and let the delightful flavors of these beans elevate your table tonight!

Instant Pot Beans

A comforting and flavorful dish made with tender beans cooked quickly in an Instant Pot, perfect for any meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 200

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup dried beans (e.g., black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans) Choose your preferred type of beans.
• 4 cups water or vegetable broth Use vegetable broth for added flavor.
• 1 large onion, chopped Chop the onion finely for even cooking.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic adds aroma and flavor.
• to taste salt and pepper Adjust according to your preference.
• optional spices (e.g., cumin, oregano) and vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots) Customize with your favorite spices and veggies.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Soak the dried beans overnight if you have time; otherwise, skip this step.
2. Select the 'Sauté' function on your Instant Pot. Drizzle in oil and sauté the chopped onions for about 3 minutes until they are translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute to enhance the aroma.
4. Add the soaked or unsoaked beans to the pot, pour in the water or broth, and stir to combine.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices you wish to include.
6. Close the lid, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Select 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' and set the timer for 30 minutes.
7. Once cooking is complete, let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes and then perform a quick release for any remaining steam.
8. Open the lid, stir the beans, and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm.

Notes

Store cooked beans in an airtight container in the fridge for 4-5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth.