If you have leftover beans that you need to reheat, but you’re unsure which option is the best, don’t worry!
We’re here to (finally!) resolve the mystery of the best way to reheat beans. The good news for all microwave users is that this appliance is the easiest and fastest option!
In fact, most beans are perfectly safe for a quick reheat session in the microwave. What matters is to transfer the beans to a microwave-safe plate and avoid overheating them.
This will prevent the beans from drying out and losing flavor. One minute to two of reheating in the microwave is sufficient.
Keep reading more to learn the do’s and don’ts of reheating beans in the microwave!
Table of Contents
How to Reheat Beans in the Microwave Oven?
The microwave is only one of the several ways with which you can reheat different beans. It’s also among the most popular ones due to providing quick results without any fuss!
This is the most convenient option when you’re in a rush or when you’re too hungry! It will reheat the beans evenly and quickly in only a couple of minutes.
But, how exactly should you reheat the beans in the microwave to ensure the best results?
This is particularly important because you want to avoid reheating the beans for too long: high heat for long periods of time will dry them out and mess up their texture!
Follow these step-by-step tips for smooth and easy reheating of beans in the microwave:
- Take out the beans from the fridge or freezer and transfer them to a microwave-safe plate
- Cover the beans with a lid, plastic wrap, or a damp paper towel
- Warm up the beans in 30-second intervals, always stirring during each pause
- After a minute or a minute or half, check to see if they’re warm enough
- If you notice the beans look dry, add a bit of water or stock to loosen them up
- Serve them warm and enjoy!
How to Store Cooked Beans for Later Reheating?
When reheating beans, it’s essential not to miss out on an important step: proper storage of the leftovers. When you have leftover beans that you plan to eat within a day or two, the fridge is a good choice.
You just need a suitable container with a lid: plastic or glass are the two best options. Wait for the leftovers to cool down completely and transfer them to the container and set them in the fridge.
When it’s time for reheating, just take out the desired amount and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Warm it up for a minute or two and the beans are ready for serving!
If you don’t plan to consume them within several days, it’s best to freeze the leftovers. Transfer them into freezer-safe containers, close them well, and store them in the freezer. It’s best to consume them within three to six months.
The longer the beans remain in the freezer, the more will they lose their original flavor, taste, and texture, but they will still be yummy and safe for consumption.
When you plan to consume the beans, take out the desired portion from the freezer. You can leave the beans to thaw in the fridge or defrost them in the microwave.
Two to three minutes are usually enough to thaw the beans. Afterward, warm them up as desired.
Can You Reheat Cooked Beans in the Microwave?
Cooked beans are safe for reheating in the microwave. This includes cooked beans and cooked meals that contain beans.
The microwave is a fast and efficient way to warm up the cooled or frozen cooked beans and enjoy a soothing meal. If necessary, you can reheat all kinds of beans twice.
The important thing is proper storage in the fridge or freezer.
And, remember to heat them all the way and at the right temperature to destroy any potential bacteria that could cause food-borne diseases. When you reheat cooked beans in the microwave, make sure you use a proper microwave-safe bowl or a plate.
Can You Reheat Canned Beans in the Microwave?
Canned beans in the can aren’t suitable for the microwave. If you wish to reheat the beans that are inside, it’s important to transfer them into a microwave-safe bowl first.
The cans aren’t microwave-safe due to the fact that metals don’t absorb the radiation of microwaves. What’s more, the metals may damage the microwave during the process. Also, many cans have paper labels.
These labels could catch fire in the microwave and this could lead to numerous hazards and pose a danger to the whole family! Once you transfer the canned beans to a suitable microwave-safe container, warm them up for a minute or two and they’re ready for serving.
Take into account that beans from a can are already cooked so make sure you don’t overheat or overcook them. This will ensure they stay tasty and preserve their texture.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have leftover cooked beans or beans from a can, you can use the microwave to reheat them. This is one of the fastest and most convenient options for reheating leftover and canned beans, but also for reheating a variety of other foods.
They need only a minute or two in the microwave to become warm and ready for serving.
When reheating the beans in the microwave, don’t forget the importance of proper storing. And, always use a microwave-safe bowl to reheat the beans. Never reheat beans inside a can!
The fridge is perfect if you plan to eat them within several days-if not, the freezer is a much better option. This will prolong their safety and preserve their texture and flavor.
What’s your favorite way of reheating beans?
