How Long Do You Pressure Cook Beans

How long do you pressure cook beans depends on the type of bean, but most beans take between 20 and 45 minutes at high pressure.
 
That’s the short answer, but there’s a lot more to it if you want perfectly tender beans every single time.
 
If you’ve been asking yourself how long do you pressure cook beans, you’re in the right place.
 
Whether you’re using a stovetop pressure cooker or an electric one like an Instant Pot, the timing changes based on the bean variety, whether they’re soaked, and your altitude.
 
In this post, we’ll break down exactly how long to pressure cook beans, why soaking matters, and how to avoid mushy or tough results.
 
Let’s dive in.
 

How Long Do You Pressure Cook Beans by Type

The answer to how long do you pressure cook beans really comes down to the specific bean you’re cooking.
 
Different beans have different densities and sizes, so their cooking times vary quite a bit.
 
Here’s a handy breakdown so you can pressure cook beans with confidence.
 

1. Black Beans and Pinto Beans

Black beans and pinto beans are among the most common beans people pressure cook.
 
If you’re wondering how long do you pressure cook beans like these, plan for about 25 to 30 minutes at high pressure for soaked beans.
 
For unsoaked black or pinto beans, add another 10 to 15 minutes, so roughly 35 to 45 minutes.
 
Both types hold their shape well and turn out creamy without falling apart.
 

2. Kidney Beans and Cannellini Beans

Kidney beans and cannellini beans are larger and denser, so they need a bit more time.
 
When people ask how long do you pressure cook beans like kidney beans, the answer is around 30 to 35 minutes for soaked beans.
 
Unsoaked kidney beans can take 45 to 50 minutes, and they absolutely must be boiled hard to destroy toxins.
 
A pressure cooker handles that safely, which is one big reason to pressure cook beans instead of simmering them on the stove.
 

3. Chickpeas and Soybeans

Chickpeas and soybeans are the toughest of the bunch.
 
So how long do you pressure cook beans that are this dense?
 
For soaked chickpeas, expect 35 to 40 minutes, and for unsoaked ones, 50 to 60 minutes.
 
Soybeans take even longer, sometimes 60 to 70 minutes unsoaked.
 
These beans reward your patience with a buttery texture that’s perfect for hummus, soups, and stews.
 

4. Lentils and Split Peas

Lentils and split peas are technically pulses, but they count in the bean family for pressure cooking.
 
How long do you pressure cook beans like these?
 
Much less time, thankfully.
 
Lentils take about 8 to 12 minutes at high pressure, and split peas take roughly 12 to 15 minutes.
 
They don’t need soaking at all, which makes them a weeknight favorite.
 

Why Soaking Changes How Long You Pressure Cook Beans

Soaking is the single biggest factor in how long do you pressure cook beans.
 
When you soak beans overnight, they absorb water and soften, which cuts cooking time nearly in half.
 
Soaked beans also cook more evenly and tend to hold their shape better.
 
If you’re short on time, a quick soak works too.
 
Just boil the beans for two minutes, turn off the heat, and let them sit for an hour.
 
Then drain and rinse before they go into the pressure cooker.
 
If you skip soaking entirely, that’s fine, but you’ll need to add 10 to 20 minutes to whatever time you’d normally use.
 
Either way, always use fresh water for cooking, not the soaking water, to keep things easy on your stomach.
 

Tips to Nail the Timing Every Time

Getting the timing right is one thing, but a few extra tips will make your beans consistently perfect.
 

1. Use the Right Amount of Liquid

For every cup of dried beans, add about 3 to 4 cups of water or broth.
 
Beans absorb a lot of liquid, and you don’t want them scorching at the bottom of the pot.
 
When in doubt, add a little more liquid, since you can always drain the extras later.
 

2. Add Fat and Aromatics

A splash of oil, a piece of bacon, or some onion and garlic adds flavor and helps prevent foaming.
 
Foaming can clog the pressure valve, so this small step makes a big difference.
 
Just avoid adding salt or acidic ingredients like tomatoes until the beans are fully cooked.
 
Both can toughen the skins and extend how long do you pressure cook beans before they turn tender.
 

3. Let the Pressure Release Naturally

After the cooking time is up, turn off the heat and let the pressure come down on its own.
 
This natural release takes 10 to 20 minutes, and the beans keep cooking gently during that time.
 
Quick releasing too soon can cause beans to split and lose their creamy texture.
 
So factor the natural release into your overall plan, especially if you’re timing dinner.
 

4. Adjust for Altitude

If you live above 2,000 feet, you’ll need to increase cooking time slightly.
 
Add about 5 percent more time for every 1,000 feet above sea level.
 
It’s a small tweak, but it makes a real difference in how long do you pressure cook beans at higher elevations.
 

So, How Long Do You Pressure Cook Beans?

How long do you pressure cook beans ranges from about 8 minutes for lentils to 70 minutes for unsoaked soybeans, with most common beans landing between 25 and 45 minutes.
 
The exact answer to how long do you pressure cook beans depends on the variety, whether you soaked them, and your altitude.
 
Soak when you can, use plenty of liquid, and let the pressure release naturally for the best texture.
 
Once you get the hang of it, you’ll never go back to canned beans again.
 
Now you know exactly how long do you pressure cook beans, so go grab that bag from your pantry and get cooking.