How Long To Soak Beans With Baking Soda

Soaking beans with baking soda usually takes anywhere from 4 to 12 hours, depending on the type of bean and how soft you want them.
 
Adding baking soda to your soaking water can speed up the process and help soften beans faster than plain water alone.
 
If you’ve been wondering how long to soak beans with baking soda, the short answer is overnight for most beans, but there are some nuances worth knowing.
 
In this post, we’ll break down how long to soak beans with baking soda for different varieties, why baking soda helps, and a few tips to get perfect results every time.
 
Let’s dive in.
 

How Long to Soak Beans with Baking Soda?

The answer to how long to soak beans with baking soda depends on the bean type and your schedule.
 

1. Overnight Soak (8 to 12 Hours)

For most beans like black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans, soaking them with baking soda for 8 to 12 hours is ideal.
 
This overnight method gives the baking soda enough time to work its magic on the bean skins.
 
You’ll wake up to beans that are plump, tender, and ready for cooking.
 

2. Quick Soak (1 to 4 Hours)

If you’re short on time, you can soak beans with baking soda for just 1 to 4 hours using hot water.
 
Bring your water to a boil, add the baking soda and beans, then let them sit covered for a few hours.
 
This shortcut still works well, though the texture may be slightly less uniform than an overnight soak.
 

3. Chickpeas and Large Beans (12+ Hours)

Chickpeas and other large beans benefit from soaking with baking soda for at least 12 hours.
 
Their thicker skins need more time for the baking soda to break down the pectin.
 
So if you’re soaking chickpeas with baking soda, plan for a full overnight soak or even a bit longer.
 

Why Add Baking Soda When Soaking Beans?

Baking soda does more than just sit in the water when you soak beans with it.
 

1. It Softens Beans Faster

Baking soda raises the pH of the soaking water, which helps break down the pectin in bean skins.
 
This means your beans soften more quickly when you soak them with baking soda compared to plain water.
 

2. It Reduces Cooking Time

When you soak beans with baking soda, they cook faster once they hit the pot.
 
That’s because the baking soda has already started weakening the bean’s outer layer during the soak.
 

3. It Helps with Digestive Issues

Some people find that soaking beans with baking soda makes them easier to digest.
 
The baking soda can help break down some of the compounds that cause gas and bloating.
 

4. It Keeps Beans Tender

Beans soaked with baking soda tend to have a creamier texture after cooking.
 
This is especially helpful for dishes like hummus or refried beans where smoothness matters.
 

How Much Baking Soda Should You Use?

Getting the ratio right matters when you soak beans with baking soda.
 

1. The General Rule

Use about 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda for every pound of dried beans.
 
That’s usually enough to soften the beans without leaving a soapy taste.
 

2. Don’t Overdo It

Too much baking soda can make your beans taste bitter or soapy.
 
Stick to the recommended amount when you soak beans with baking soda, and you’ll be fine.
 

3. Adjust for Hard Water

If your tap water is very hard, you might need a pinch more baking soda.
 
Hard water minerals can slow down the softening process, so a little extra baking soda helps balance things out.
 

Tips for Soaking Beans with Baking Soda

Here are a few extra pointers to make your soaking session a success.
 

1. Rinse Before and After

Always rinse your beans before soaking and again after.
 
This removes dirt and any lingering baking soda residue.
 

2. Use Enough Water

Beans absorb a lot of liquid, so cover them with at least 2 to 3 inches of water.
 
If they soak up everything, add more so they stay submerged.
 

3. Keep Them Cool

If you’re soaking beans with baking soda for more than a few hours, pop them in the fridge.
 
This prevents fermentation and keeps them fresh.
 

4. Drain and Cook

Once your soak is done, drain the beans and give them a quick rinse.
 
Then cook them as usual, and you’ll notice they soften much faster.
 

So, How Long to Soak Beans with Baking Soda?

Soaking beans with baking soda takes about 8 to 12 hours for most beans, though you can speed things up with hot water and a shorter soak.
 
The baking soda helps soften the skins, reduces cooking time, and makes beans easier to digest.
 
Just remember to use the right amount and rinse well before cooking.
 
So next time you’re prepping a pot of beans, consider soaking beans with baking soda for the best results.