How to Preserve Pinto Beans

Pinto beans are one of the most versatile of the dried beans. They are used in soups, as refried beans, and even as an ingredient in candies such as fudge. These beans also have a very long shelf life when harvested and preserved correctly. A food storage staple, pinto beans lose very little quality as long as they are protected from moisture and air. Growing your pinto beans gives you access to a low-cost food that helps round out your pantry and adds protein to your meals.

Newspaper
Airtight container
Label and pen

Instructions

- 1
  Pick pinto bean pods from the plants once they are brittle and dry and once the bean seeds inside are fully formed and hard.
- 2
  Split the pods open and shake out the beans. Dispose of any shriveled or broken beans.
- 3
  Spread the pinto beans out on a sheet of newspaper in a dry, well-ventilated room. Leave the beans to dry for an additional seven days.
- 4
  Place the dried pinto beans into an airtight container. Seal it closed and label it with the bean variety and year preserved.
- 5
  Store in a dark, cool pantry until you are ready to use the beans. Pinto beans retain all their flavor and nutrients for a year or longer, and can be stored for as long as 30 years with only a minimal loss of quality.

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