Rant: I used to think canned beans were a waste of money until I actually did the math

I was always team dry beans because a bag costs like $1.50 and makes a ton. But last month I tracked my time messing with soaking and boiling a bag of black beans from Aldi. It took me like 4 hours total across two days with all the rinsing and watching the pot. Then I bought a 99 cent can of the same beans and dinner was ready in 5 minutes. The time saved was worth way more than the tiny price difference for me. Now I only do dry beans if I'm making a big batch for meal prep on a weekend. Has anyone else switched sides on this one?

2 comments

2 Comments

michaelcoleman14d ago

The 99 cent cans at Aldi are a total game changer. I started keeping a few of those black beans in my pantry for weeknights when I get home late and just want to throw together some tacos or a quick bowl. For big meal preps, I'll still do a whole bag of dry pintos in the slow cooker, set it and forget it. But for a Tuesday night after work, cracking open a can wins every time.

ivancoleman14d ago

I keep a jar of cumin and chili powder right next to the can opener for exactly those nights.