European Soldier Beans

Store dried beans in an airtight container in a cool, dry, dark place. Properly stored, they can last for years, though older beans may require longer cooking times.

Soak dried soldier beans overnight (or use a quick soak method) before cooking to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.

Rinse beans thoroughly after soaking and before cooking.

Add beans to soups, stews, salads, or mash them for dips and spreads.

Cook beans until tender but not mushy for the best texture in dishes.

Garlic and onion

Rosemary and sage

Tomatoes

Olive oil

Lemon juice

Bacon and pancetta

Not soaking beans: This leads to very long cooking times and uneven texture.

Salting the cooking water too early: Adding salt at the beginning can toughen the bean skins. Add salt towards the end of cooking.

Overcooking beans: This can result in a mushy, unappealing texture.