Ask skp: Should I be soaking my grains and legumes?

Short answer: absolutely. Not only does soaking grains, beans and legumes cut down cooking time - in half in some cases - but by submerging these protein-packed plant staples, the healthful benefits increase!

Lentils, whole grains, and your favorite legumes contain phytic acid, which can reduce the absorption of some important nutrients. Soaking for several hours (or overnight) minimizes barriers such as phytic acid, allowing for proper absorption of the good-for-you minerals we crave while also easing digestion.