Cool Beans!

     This week I cooked up a big batch of chili.  On a cold winter's day there's nothing like a bowlful to fortify and warm a body.  And for variety I threw in  2 different kinds of beans: kidney and black.  They're rich in fiber, protein, magnesium, potassium, iron, copper, and folate.  And they are low in saturated fat, sugar and sodium, too.

     Well, at least they start out low in sodium.  But unfortunately most canned beans contain anywhere from 250 to 500 milligrams of sodium.  But even if you purchase unsalted canned beans there is the risk of ingesting the controversial compound BPA which is found in the epoxy resin used to create the clear plastic protective can liner.

     So what is an aspiring kitchen chef to do?  One option is to soak and cook your own dried beans, if you have the time.  But that requires a lot of prep time, usually overnight, just to get the beans "stove ready."  There is another option I've discovered.  The Whole Foods franchise markets their 365 brand of organic no salt added black, cannellini, garbanzo and kidney beans in a carton instead of a can.  And unlike most of the items in their store, they're inexpensive, $1.49 for a 13.4 oz carton, which holds 3 half-cup servings.  That's about half the price of the nearest canned competition, Eden Organic No Salt Added beans (which comes in a BPA free can).

   As we all attempt to reduce our sodium intake, this is just one more way to eat healthy without feeling short changed on taste or flavor.