How to Dry Beans to Make Shucky Beans
Discover the time-honored art of making shucky beans with our guide on how to dry beans from scratch. This traditional Appalachian recipe transforms fresh green beans into a shelf-stable delicacy bursting with concentrated flavor. Using just a sewing needle, cotton thread, and a bit of patience, you’ll create strands of beans that dry naturally in a well-ventilated area over a few weeks. The result is a pantry staple perfect for hearty stews, soups, or as a standalone side dish. With minimal ingredients and a simple step-by-step process, learning to dry beans is both a culinary craft and a nod to preserving heritage cooking techniques. Perfect for homesteaders and anyone looking to elevate their homemade pantry essentials!
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Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh green beans
- 1 spool cotton thread
- 1 piece sewing needle
Directions
Step 1
Wash the green beans thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
Step 2
Snap off the ends of the green beans and remove any strings if present. Keep each bean whole, as smaller pieces may fall apart during the drying process.
Step 3
Using a sewing needle and cotton thread, thread the green beans one at a time. Pierce each bean near the middle, and continue threading until you have a strand of beans about 2-3 feet long.
Step 4
Once all the beans are threaded, knot the thread securely to prevent the beans from slipping off.
Step 5
Find a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area to hang the bean strands for drying. A covered porch, attic, or pantry with good airflow works well.
Step 6
Hang the bean strands where they will not touch each other to allow air to circulate evenly around the beans.
Step 7
Let the beans dry completely, which can take 2-3 weeks depending on the humidity and airflow. The beans should be shriveled, leathery, and fully dry to the touch.
Step 8
Once fully dried, store the beans in a sealable container or airtight bag. Keep them in a cool, dry place until ready to cook.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1008.2g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 281.2 |
| Total Fat 1.8g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 0.9g | 0% |
| Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium 54.4mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 64.4g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 30.8g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 29.9g | |
| Protein 16.3g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 335.7mg | 0% |
| Iron 9.1mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1914.2mg | 0% |
Source of Calories