Bean Basics
Discover everything you need to enjoy N'TANGRA with confidence. From cooking tips and frequently asked questions to our commitment to quality, sustainability, shipping, and customer care, you’ll find helpful information to make the most of every pouch.
FAQs
Why choose dried beans, peas, and lentils?
Dried beans, peas, and lentils are versatile pantry staples that are easy to store and can be prepared in many ways. From soups and stews to salads, bowls, spreads, and side dishes, each variety brings its own flavor, texture, cooking qualities, and naturally occurring nutrients.
Do I need to soak beans before cooking?
For most whole dried beans, we recommend soaking in the refrigerator for 8–12 hours or overnight. Soaking begins hydration and can encourage more even cooking. Black-eyed peas can be cooked without soaking, and lentils do not require soaking.
Can I cook beans without soaking?
Yes, for most beans. Rinse well and allow additional cooking time if you skip soaking. Red kidney beans require special cooking care: after soaking, boil vigorously in fresh water for at least 10 minutes before reducing the heat and continuing to cook until fully tender.
How should I store dried beans, peas, and lentils?
Store unopened pouches in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Once opened, close the zipper securely after each use.
Can I freeze cooked beans?
Yes. Allow cooked beans to cool, then freeze them in portions that are convenient for future meals.
What is the difference between beans, peas, and lentils?
Beans, peas, and lentils are all legumes, but they differ in flavor, texture, cooking time, and naturally occurring nutrients. Exploring several varieties is an easy way to bring more diversity to everyday meals.
Bean & Lentil Cooking Guide
Most Beans
Rinse well and soak 8–12 hours or overnight in the refrigerator. Drain and rinse, then cook in fresh water until tender. Most varieties take about 45–90 minutes after soaking. Add water as needed while cooking.
Red Kidney Beans
After soaking, drain and rinse. Boil vigorously in fresh water for at least 10 minutes before reducing the heat. Continue cooking until fully tender. Do not cook raw or soaked kidney beans only at slow-cooker temperatures without first giving them this vigorous boil.
Black-Eyed Peas
Rinse well. Soaking is not required. Cook in fresh water until tender, about 30–45 minutes. Add water as needed.
Lentils
Lentils do not need soaking. Rinse well before cooking. Red lentils generally cook in about 15–20 minutes and soften into a creamy texture. Green and French lentils generally take about 20–30 minutes and hold their shape more readily.
Our Commitment to Quality
Every meal begins long before we step into the kitchen. It begins with the soil, the seed, the farmer, and the care given throughout the growing season.
At N'TANGRA, we thoughtfully choose certified organic beans, peas, and lentils because they reflect the values that guide our company. We value thoughtfully grown food, respect for nature, and the simple pleasure of meals prepared at home.
Our Promise
Every pouch that carries the N'TANGRA name represents the same care we bring to our own kitchen. We thoughtfully select certified organic beans, peas, and lentils because we believe good food begins with quality ingredients.
- Thoughtfully chosen ingredients
- Certified organic products
- Honest information
- Respect for food
- Respect for everyone who welcomes N'TANGRA into their home
Sustainability
Thoughtful food begins with thoughtful choices. We believe caring for food also means caring for the land, the people who grow it, and the communities we serve. As N'TANGRA grows, we remain committed to making thoughtful decisions that reflect these values.
Shipping & Customer Care
We carefully prepare every order so your N'TANGRA products arrive ready for your pantry. Orders are processed as quickly as possible and packed with care.
Shipping Disclaimer
Because our products are food items, we are unable to accept returns or exchanges once an order has been delivered. If your order arrives damaged or incorrect, please contact us so we can help.
Contact Us
We'd love to hear from you. Whether you have a question about our products or an order, we're here to help.
Email: info@ntangrabeans.com
Thank you for visiting N'Tangra. We're grateful to be part of your kitchen and your table.