Frugal Recipe – Day 2

Here is the next in my series of new recipes that I have added to my families monthly menu rotations. Today’s recipe is one that my children have come to LOVE and even ASK for! When I first started making them I never thought that day would come. It features beans. Dried beans are about the cheapest thing in the store and they go really far. For about $1.50 you can get a bag of beans and make at least three meals out of them.

I use these in tacos, burritos, and nachos instead of hamburger. My children eat them plain (with toothpicks) for lunch at least once a week. And I have served them over some seasoned rice for a hearty bean and rice meal.

I soak the bag of dried beans for several hours or overnight in cool water. Then I drain the water and pour the beans into the crock pot. Then I cover with water and season with a generous helping of salt, some cumin, some chili powder, some diced onion, a little pepper, and some garlic salt. I change it up a little every time. Some times I add some diced jalapenos, or some cilantro for a different taste. After these beans cook for about 6-8 hours or until tender, they are ready to serve or to freeze for later use.

It might take some time but I hope that all of you can learn to enjoy beans and the added nutrients that they can add to your diet. They are cheap, and fun, and VERY healthy. What more can you ask for in a $1.50 a bag.