Step 1

Rinse dried legumes well and pick over and discard any debris or shriveled pieces.

Step 2

Dried beans are best to cook after soaking overnight in a bowl of water on the counter, but lentils and split peas do not need to soak at all. You can pressure cook dried beans without soaking, but there is a greater chance they will break.

Step 3

If soaking, drain the water, rinse, and transfer the soaked legumes to a large saucepan. Cover with at least two inches of water and add a pinch of salt.

Step 4

Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer partially covered with a lid until tender. Stir every so often and add more water if needed.

Step 5

Use immediately or cool and store for later.