MAKE-AHEAD BEAN SUPPERS

Canned beans suffer from, um… squishiness. Sure, they’re a great convenience. But there’s no doubt about it: Rehydrated dried beans have better texture and flavor. So here’s an idea for a make-ahead meal: Soak those dried beans overnight, then toss them in a bag with lots of other ingredients and freeze them for a freezer-to-pot supper that’s less hassle with more toothsome bean goodness.

Yes, these are not ready-in-minutes meals. They must cook for a good while. So consider these as make-aheads for a chilly weekend evening. Make sure you pick up a sturdy red wine or a hoppy IPA to round out the meal.