Can you use the water from soaking beans when make soup or stew?

Soaking beans in water overnight is a common practice to soften them and reduce cooking time. However, the water used for soaking should be discarded before cooking the beans, as it may contain impurities, including dirt, debris, and anti-nutrients such as tannins and phytates.

Consuming these impurities can have negative health effects, such as reduced mineral absorption and potential digestive issues. It's recommended to use fresh water for cooking soaked beans to ensure the safety and quality of the final dish.