I normally just used canned beans for everything, but I was recently watching a cooking show and they recommended making your own. so I bought a few pounds of beans and have been making my own in the crockpot. The only downside I have found is that I have to plan those meals a couple days in advance because of having to soak them, then cook them, and then make them into what I want (i.e. soup, chilli, etc.). Tonight we're having mexican, so the pintos are cooking. I'll let you know how they turn out. Does anybody else make beans this way, or does it just take too long for your purposes?

lol everytime i try to 'plan' to have somethign specific for dinner days in advance, somethign happens and it we dont have it. so i think i would not be up for this... that and i am lazy - i have easy access to no salt added canned organic beans, good enough for me ;)

Nope, though my hat is totally off to you for doing it! I'm a canned bean gal.

Okay, the beans turned out really good. They were very yummy, BUT I'm not sure if it is worth all the effort...but I still have a three pound bag of beans. I'll try it a couple more times and see how it goes.

OH, I love to make Homemade Beans, Yes they are putsy but so worth it.
I still use my Grandfathers recipe. SUper, Super Easy...

Soak NOrthern beans over night, cold water.
In morning, clean and remove bad pieces.
In bean pot(oven proof)
Layers Beans, Onions, & Sliced Salt Pork. Layer until almost full.'
add water and cover.
bake 300 for HOURS. check hourly to keep water full.
Test beans for Preferred texture.

Next day great as sandwiches,.....