The average prepper has little concerns with legumes, much more discussions on the best bean types for prepping. This is because they don’t offer as many calories as the more common emergency foods. However, it wouldn’t be a terrible idea to have a reservoir of beans stocked in your pantry.
After all, Beans are rich in protein, fiber, minerals & vitamins, as well as offer some compounds that assist bodily functions. Beans would make great meals in the wild due to their nutrients, although you’ll have to deal with the gassiness that follows.
Forms of Beans to Take Prepping
From a general perspective, there are two forms of beans to stockpile as a prepper. They are canned beans & dried beans. Let’s see which to settle for when you hit the great outdoors.
Canned Beans
These are beans stored in cans. They are usually cooked & ready to eat. Some good reasons to stockpile this bean form are:
- They are very affordable;
- They are widely available;
- They can be put away in the pantry immediately after purchase.
- They remain good for very long, even beyond their best-by dates, if they are properly stored.
- You may decide to eat them directly from the can.
Dried Beans
These are beans that have been de-moisturized, cleaned & stored. Some stores have a wide range of dried beans in case you’d like to explore the shelves before making a choice.
The advantages of dried beans include:
- They offer good nutrition;
- They are easily stored;
- They are also very affordable;
- A small quantity makes a satisfying meal.
4 Best Bean Types for Prepping
Lentils
Lentils are rich in protein & fiber and valuable nutrients like iron, potassium, phosphorus & folate. They are often used in stews, soups, salad toppings, or as a side dish.
Pinto Beans
Pinto beans have high levels of carbs, proteins, minerals, vitamins & fiber. They are commonly used for chili, baked beans & in several Mexican dishes. Pinto can be mashed & then fried to make refried beans.
Kidney Beans
Kidney beans have this name due to their shape, which looks like a human kidney — particularly the red type. They are an excellent source of protein, carbs, antioxidants, minerals, vitamins & fiber. This bean type is mostly used in chili & various rice dishes.
Soybeans
These are considered a super bean due to their rich levels of minerals, vitamins, carbs, fats & protein. This bean type is usually used to make other products like tofu, soymilk, or tofu. Soybean oil is also popular.
Concluding the Best Bean Types for Prepping
If you’ve never stockpiled beans in your pantry, now is a good time to do so. Having a good source with nourishing abilities can be crucial to your health in the wild. There’s really no reason not to include any of the best bean types for prepping mentioned above in your pantry.
