Once picked and dried your pinto beans what is the best way to store beans?

Here's a breakdown of the best way to store dried pinto beans, ensuring they stay fresh and flavorful:

1. Cool and Dry Location:

* Ideal: A cool, dark, and dry pantry or cupboard is the perfect spot.

* Avoid: Direct sunlight, heat, and humidity can degrade the beans.

2. Suitable Containers:

* Airtight: Use airtight containers like glass jars, plastic containers with tight lids, or food storage bags.

* Glass is Preferred: Glass is less likely to absorb flavors or odors compared to plastic.

3. Properly Store:

* Label and Date: Label your containers with the date of storage for easy tracking.

* Regular Inspection: Check for any signs of moisture, bugs, or mildew. Discard any beans that appear damaged.

4. Long-Term Storage Options:

* Freezing: For even longer storage, you can freeze dried beans in freezer bags. This helps maintain freshness for up to a year.

* Vacuum Sealing: If you have a vacuum sealer, consider using it for maximum freshness and shelf life.

Tips:

* Don't Overfill: Leave some space in the container to allow air circulation.

* Desiccant Packs: Consider using desiccant packs (small packets that absorb moisture) in your containers.

Remember: Dried pinto beans can last for a year or more when stored properly.