BEANS / BULK

Dry vs. Canned: The Real Cost-Per-Gram of Bulk Black Beans

A pound of dry black beans yields nearly six cans' worth of cooked beans once soaked and simmered. This audit walks through soak time, energy cost, and final price-per-serving — dry wins even after factoring in stove time.

INGREDIENT UNIT LEDGER

SERVINGS: 6
INGREDIENT ITEM QTY UNIT COST
Dry Black Beans 1 lb $1.60
Yellow Onion, Halved 0 onion $0.15
Garlic Cloves 2 cloves $0.20
Bay Leaf 1 leaf $0.05
Cumin 1 tsp $0.06
ESTIMATED TOTAL MATRIX: $2.06
COST PER SERVING: $0.34

Preparation Protocol

  1. Soak: Soak dry beans in water overnight, or at least 6 hours, then drain and rinse.
  2. Simmer: Combine soaked beans, onion, garlic, and bay leaf in a pot with fresh water to cover by 2 inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer.
  3. Cook: Simmer uncovered for 60-90 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beans are creamy and tender.
  4. Season and Finish: Remove the onion and bay leaf, stir in cumin, and season with salt to taste.