Save on Spending
Grains, beans and lentils are rich in protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals that will fill your tummy without emptying your wallet. You can buy these foods in bulk! They will last long – both in your body and in your pantry. If you are curious about storage and shelf life.
Canned beans are a solid option if you want to save time. But with just a little extra preparation, dried beans can be quick and easy (and less expensive!) too. Canned pinto beans cost around $0.34 per a half cup serving while dried pinto beans cost $0.15 per serving. If you do go for canned, make sure to look for the low sodium option, since canned foods contain a lot of added salt.
Bump up nutritional value.
Although grains, nuts and legumes are healthy sources of protein, vitamins and fiber, they also contain phytic acid which stops your digestive system from obtaining certain nutrients. Soaking helps break down the phytic acid and lets your body access more nutrients.
Cut down cooking time.
Think of rice. Raw rice grains are small, hard and crackly. Cooked rice is puffy and soft. It becomes this way by absorbing water and swelling. Letting these foods sit in water before cooking them gives them a head start. The same goes with beans and lentils. See how much those chickpeas start to swell after soaking them overnight? This means less time on the stove! We’ll talk more later about sprouting, a fresh and crunchy way you can enjoy your grains and beans.
