Bean Calculator
Dry to cooked conversions, water ratios, and cook times by variety
Frequently asked questions
How much does 1 pound of dry beans make?
Most dry beans roughly triple in volume when cooked. One pound (about 2.25 cups dry) yields about 2.5 to 2.75 cups cooked, depending on the variety. Chickpeas and navy beans expand a bit more than black or kidney beans.
Do I need to soak beans before cooking?
Soaking shortens cook time, improves texture, and makes beans easier to digest. An overnight soak (8 hours) is best for most beans. Lentils are the exception — they cook quickly and do not need soaking.
How many servings are in a pound of dry beans?
One pound of dry beans makes roughly 2.5 to 2.75 cups cooked, which is about 5 to 6 servings at ½ cup per serving — perfect for a side dish or as part of a main meal.
Can I use canned beans instead of dry?
Yes. One 15-oz can of cooked beans equals about 1.5 cups drained, or roughly ⅔ cup dry beans before cooking. Canned beans are faster but dry beans are cheaper and have better texture and flavor.
Why are my beans still hard after cooking?
The most common reasons are old beans (over a year old can stay hard no matter how long you cook them), hard water, or adding acidic ingredients like tomatoes or vinegar too early. Salt is fine, but add acids only after the beans are fully tender.
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