How to Cook Beans in 20 Minutes
How to Cook Beans in 20 Minutes is a easy West African recipe that serves 4. 240 calories per serving. Recipe by Chefgiwa on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 55 min
Cost: $4.52 total, $1.13 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup Dried Beans (Pigeon Peas or any small white bean) (Rinsed and drained)
- 4 cups Water (Fresh cold water)
- 1 medium Onion (Finely chopped; about 150 g)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (Preferably kosher or sea salt)
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper (Optional, for finishing)
Instructions
Rinse and Prepare
Place the dried beans in a colander and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear. Transfer to a large pot. Peel and finely chop the onion.
Time: PT5M
Add Water and Bring to Boil
Add 4 cups of fresh water to the pot with the beans. Place the pot over high heat and bring to a rolling boil.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 100°C
Introduce Onion and Salt Early
Within the first 10 minutes of boiling, add the chopped onion and 1 teaspoon of salt to the pot. Stir gently to distribute.
Time: PT2M
Simmer Until Tender
Reduce heat to a gentle simmer (around 90°C). Cook for about 20 minutes, or until the beans are soft but still hold their shape. Test a bean by biting or mashing with a fork.
Time: PT20M
Temperature: 90°C
Finish and Serve
Turn off the heat. Drain excess liquid if desired, or leave a thin broth. Sprinkle optional black pepper and serve hot with rice, plantain, or bread.
Time: PT3M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 240
- Protein
- 12 g
- Carbohydrates
- 40 g
- Fat
- 0.5 g
- Fiber
- 10 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
Last updated: April 3, 2026








