How do you freeze cooked pinto beans?

Freezing cooked pinto beans is a great way to have them on hand for quick meals later! Here's how to do it:

1. Cool the beans: Let your cooked pinto beans cool completely. This will prevent ice crystals from forming and damaging the beans.

2. Portion the beans: Choose a container size that works for your typical use. You can use freezer-safe bags, airtight containers, or even ice cube trays for individual portions.

3. Leave some headspace: Don't overfill your containers. Leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.

4. Label and date: Label your containers with the date so you know how long they've been frozen.

5. Freeze: Place your containers in the freezer and freeze for up to 3 months.

To use frozen pinto beans:

* Thaw: Thaw frozen beans in the refrigerator overnight or in a bowl of cold water for a few hours.

* Directly from frozen: For some recipes (like soups or stews), you can add the frozen beans directly to the pot without thawing.

Tips:

* Add some broth or water: To prevent the beans from drying out during freezing, you can add a little broth or water to your container.

* Freeze in smaller portions: It's generally easier to use smaller portions of frozen beans, so consider freezing them in individual portions.

* Use frozen beans within 3 months: While frozen beans can last longer, they'll be at their best quality within 3 months.

Enjoy your convenient, delicious, frozen pinto beans!