Baking soda shortens cooking time and softens beans. Average bean cooking time is 1.5 hours.
Adding a teaspoon of baking soda cuts the time to 50–60 minutes.
However, this amount of baking soda can somewhat alter the beans' taste, so it may not be for everyone.
We recommend adding a pinch of soda and cooking for at least an hour for refined palates.
Baking soda neutralizes agents that stimulate bowel motility and gas.
To reduce gas, soak legumes for 12 hours before cooking if you feel bloated after eating them.
Papaya, another tropical wonder, tastes and feels different when refrigerated. Ripen them on your countertop and bite into the luscious, orange meat when the skin yields slightly.