Nevertheless, I am not from Texas -- I am here in Montana. And by god, it's my chili and I'll put in beans if I want to... (Wasn't that a song?)
The problem I ran into was the cost of a can of organic chili beans. Paying nearly $3 is not a cost savings. So, I went to the dried bulk aisle and looked at the dried beans. Now, I have a confession here. I don't recall using dried beans except when all hope was lost and I couldn't buy canned beans. I don't recall my mom using dried beans either. So, I took the "how to prepare bulk beans" information sheet and bought pinto beans only because I didn't want to work too hard and try to mix three beans.
After reading "soak overnight," I figured that soaking for most of the day was best and then cooking them for 2 hours. I made 2 cups, which ended up being more than I needed, so I froze the rest, so if I need to add beans to something, I can just add them frozen.
After realizing that I'm not going to be purchasing more shearling slippers anytime soon and having my "new" ones blow out, I started knitting my own slippers. I'm part way done and today I went to Walmart for some meds for my dogs (they sell prescription meds cheap) and went over to the shoe area. Sure enough, they had cheap ($12) slippers that I figured would get me through the next few months. I hate buying stuff made in China, but damn. I just can't afford to blow a lot of money on things.
I've been looking at probably making some presents this year. I've wondered what why family will think of that, but maybe I shouldn't worry so much. As I said, I've started knitting again, which is good. Maybe it won't be sidelined by the arthritis.
My mom never used dried beans much either, but I make them all the time. I cook up a whole pound or two, then divide them up into little containers with the juice and put them in the freezer. They keep well and taste better than canned.
ReplyDeleteI didn't know you knit! I crochet. I try to make presents every year too but more often than not I don't get started soon enough and resort to baking cookies and fudge for everyone. Though I've never had any complaints on that. :D
Connie
Freezing beans is a really good idea. I think I'll try to do this more.
ReplyDeleteI used to knit and crochet when I was younger but arthritis really has caused problems. Still, I figure, what the heck? Make some presents this year. Knitting is good. I'm not as good with a crochet hook, but you haven't seen my knitting either!