Introducing the culinary marvel that will revolutionize your bean-cooking experience – the Instant Pot Navy Beans! Delve into a world of convenience and flavor as you explore the art of cooking tender, creamy navy beans in record time with this multifunctional electric pressure cooker. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking enthusiast, this ingenious kitchen appliance is set to redefine the way you prepare these classic legumes.
Navy beans, also known as haricot beans or white beans, have long been a staple in traditional dishes worldwide due to their delightful taste, versatility, and nutrient-rich profile. With the Instant Pot at your disposal, preparing these wholesome little wonders becomes a breeze, saving you valuable time and effort while delivering consistently perfect results.
Gone are the days of soaking beans overnight and spending endless hours tending to the stovetop. The Instant Pot’s innovative pressure-cooking technology accelerates the cooking process, reducing cooking times significantly without compromising on taste or nutritional value. The advanced engineering ensures that the beans are evenly cooked to perfection, offering a velvety texture and an enhanced depth of flavor that will leave your taste buds yearning for more.
Not limited to just convenience and speed, the Instant Pot Navy Beans also retains essential nutrients, ensuring that every serving is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, promoting a healthy and balanced diet. Whether you’re creating classic bean soups, hearty stews, delectable salads, or experimenting with creative new recipes, the Instant Pot Navy Beans promise consistent results that will make every meal a culinary triumph.
Join the legume revolution and unlock a world of culinary possibilities with the Instant Pot Navy Beans. From comforting family dinners to impressive potluck contributions, this versatile kitchen companion will become an indispensable tool in your cooking arsenal. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and prepare to embark on a bean-cooking adventure like never before!
Cooking Navy Beans in the Instant Pot: A Speedy and Flavorful Delight!
If you’re wondering how long it takes to cook navy beans in the Instant Pot, we have fantastic news for you! With this incredible kitchen appliance, you can have perfectly cooked navy beans in a fraction of the time it would typically take using traditional methods. Say goodbye to long hours of stovetop simmering and hello to convenience and deliciousness.
To dive into the culinary adventure of Instant Pot navy beans, it only requires a mere 25 to 30 minutes. Yes, you read that right – from dry beans to tender, creamy goodness on your plate in less than half an hour! This remarkable time-saving is all thanks to the Instant Pot’s innovative pressure-cooking technology.
Before the Instant Pot era, preparing navy beans involved overnight soaking to soften them, followed by several hours of cooking. However, with this modern wonder, the need for soaking is eliminated. The Instant Pot’s pressurized environment allows for a rapid and even cooking process, reducing the overall cooking time significantly while ensuring the beans retain their wholesome nutrients and delightful taste.
To get started, simply rinse your navy beans thoroughly and add them to the Instant Pot along with water or broth. A general rule of thumb is to use about three cups of liquid for every cup of dried beans. Once you’ve closed the lid and set the appropriate cooking time and pressure settings, you can sit back and relax, knowing that the Instant Pot will take care of the rest.
As the Instant Pot reaches the desired pressure, it locks in the steam, elevating the temperature inside the pot and accelerating the cooking process. The result? Velvety soft navy beans with a rich, buttery flavor that will leave you astounded.
Aside from the convenience and time-saving benefits, cooking navy beans in the Instant Pot also allows for experimenting with various flavors and seasonings. Enhance the taste with herbs, spices, or even a touch of smokiness by adding ingredients like ham hocks or bacon. The versatility of the Instant Pot opens the door to a myriad of possibilities, from classic bean soups and chilis to creative salads and side dishes.
Whether you’re a busy professional seeking quick and wholesome meals or a passionate home cook eager to explore new culinary territories, the Instant Pot navy beans are your ticket to a satisfying and flavorsome delight. So, why wait? Embrace the wonders of modern cooking and indulge in the magic of perfectly cooked navy beans with the Instant Pot – your shortcut to culinary excellence!
Mastering the Perfect Bean-to-Water Ratio in your Instant Pot
When it comes to cooking beans in your Instant Pot, nailing the right bean-to-water ratio is the key to achieving that ideal creamy texture and delicious flavor. Fear not, as we delve into the secrets of this culinary equation, you’ll be well-equipped to cook a wide array of beans with confidence and precision.
The recommended standard ratio for cooking beans in the Instant Pot is 1:3, which translates to one part beans and three parts water. For example, if you’re cooking one cup of dried beans, you’ll want to add three cups of water to the Instant Pot. This proportion ensures that the beans have enough liquid to cook thoroughly and become tender without becoming too mushy or losing their shape.
However, this ratio can be adjusted depending on personal preferences and the specific bean variety you’re using. Some cooks prefer a firmer bean texture and might choose a 1:2.5 or even 1:2 ratio, reducing the water slightly. Conversely, for softer beans that are perfect for soups and stews, you can experiment with a 1:3.5 or 1:4 ratio, adding a bit more water to the mix.
Keep in mind that factors such as altitude, humidity, and the age of the beans can also influence the cooking process. If you find that your beans are still undercooked after following the standard ratio, don’t hesitate to increase the water slightly and give them a bit more time to cook.
Besides water, you can also use broth or stock to enhance the flavor of your beans. Vegetable broth works great for vegan or vegetarian recipes, while chicken or beef stock can add a rich and savory depth to your dishes. Feel free to get creative and add aromatics like garlic, onions, or bay leaves to infuse your beans with enticing flavors.
To ensure consistent results, always start with a thorough rinse of the beans to remove any impurities. Once the beans and water are in the Instant Pot, secure the lid, and set the appropriate cooking time and pressure level for the specific bean variety you’re using.
While the Instant Pot does the heavy lifting, you’ll be left with perfectly cooked beans that are ready to elevate your culinary creations. Whether you’re preparing classic chili, hearty bean soups, or delectable bean salads, knowing the ideal bean-to-water ratio empowers you to create flavorful, nutritious dishes that will be a hit at every meal.
So, armed with this bean-cooking knowledge, venture forth with confidence into the world of Instant Pot cooking. Embrace the versatility of your trusty appliance and explore the countless bean varieties and recipes that await you. Let the magic of the Instant Pot unleash your inner culinary maestro as you master the art of the perfect bean-to-water ratio
Embrace the Instant Pot Magic: Elevating Bean Cooking to a Whole New Level
The Instant Pot has become a game-changer in the kitchen, and when it comes to cooking beans, its allure is even more evident. Embracing this revolutionary appliance for your bean-cooking endeavors offers a multitude of benefits that will undoubtedly transform your culinary experience.
- Time-Saving Marvel: One of the most compelling reasons to use an Instant Pot for cooking beans is the incredible time savings it offers. Traditionally, cooking beans on the stovetop requires soaking them overnight and then simmering for hours. However, the Instant Pot’s pressure-cooking technology drastically reduces cooking times. What might have taken hours now takes a mere fraction of that time. From dried to tender, creamy beans, your meals are ready in a flash, making it a perfect choice for busy individuals and families. Makes large batches to feed a family or freeze for meal prep.
- Retains Nutrients and Flavor: The Instant Pot’s sealed and pressurized environment ensures that nutrients, vitamins, and minerals are locked in, preserving the natural goodness of the beans. Unlike prolonged stovetop cooking, which can lead to nutrient loss, the Instant Pot efficiently cooks beans while maintaining their wholesome benefits. Additionally, the sealed environment traps the flavor, resulting in rich, aromatic beans that burst with delightful taste in every bite.
- No Soaking Required (Most of the Time): With the Instant Pot, you can bid farewell to pre-soaking beans. While soaking beans can aid in reducing cooking times, it is not always necessary with the Instant Pot. Its high-pressure cooking method works wonders even with dry beans, allowing you to skip the soaking step and cook your beans directly from their dry state. This convenience opens up spontaneous cooking opportunities, enabling you to whip up delicious bean dishes on a whim.
- Foolproof and Consistent Results: The Instant Pot takes the guesswork out of cooking beans. Simply add the right amount of water, secure the lid, and set the appropriate cooking time and pressure level. The intelligent technology handles the rest, ensuring even cooking and preventing overcooking or undercooking. Say goodbye to burnt beans or pots boiling over; the Instant Pot brings precision to the art of bean cooking, consistently delivering perfect results.
- Versatility Unleashed: While the Instant Pot is undoubtedly a bean-cooking marvel, its versatility extends far beyond that. This multifunctional appliance can handle an array of tasks, from sautéing, steaming, and slow cooking to making yogurt and even baking. So, beyond cooking beans, the Instant Pot is your gateway to an entire world of culinary creativity, making it an indispensable tool in any kitchen.
- Energy-Efficient and Safe: The Instant Pot’s rapid cooking times save you time and conserve energy compared to conventional cooking methods. Additionally, the built-in safety features, such as the lid lock and pressure release valves, ensure that the cooking process is secure and worry-free.
Using an Instant Pot to cook beans is a decision that delivers unmatched convenience, speed, and flavor. It revolutionizes the way you approach bean-centric recipes, opening doors to a myriad of possibilities and freeing up your precious time. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, the Instant Pot promises to take your bean dishes to new heights, setting the stage for countless memorable and satisfying meals. So, seize the opportunity, embrace the Instant Pot magic, and embark on a culinary journey that will forever change the way you cook beans and so much more.
Can I Freeze A Ham Bone
Yes, you can freeze a ham bone! Freezing a ham bone is a great way to preserve it and save it for future use in soups, stews, broths, and other delicious dishes. By freezing the ham bone, you can extract even more flavor and nutrients from it when you decide to use it in your recipes later on.
Here’s how you can freeze a ham bone properly:
- Allow the Ham Bone to Cool: After enjoying your ham, let the leftover bone cool down to room temperature. This step is crucial to prevent condensation and ice crystals from forming inside the freezer storage.
- Remove Any Remaining Meat: If there is any meat left on the bone, you can cut it off and use it for other recipes, or you can leave it on the bone for added flavor when using it later.
- Wrap the Ham Bone: Wrap the ham bone tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to prevent freezer burn and ensures that the bone remains fresh during freezing.
- Place in a Freezer Bag or Container: To provide an extra layer of protection against freezer burn and odor absorption, place the wrapped ham bone into a freezer-safe plastic bag or airtight container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing it.
- Label and Date: Don’t forget to label the bag or container with the contents and the date you froze it. This will help you keep track of how long it has been in the freezer and ensure you use it within a reasonable timeframe.
- Store in the Freezer: Place the wrapped and sealed ham bone in the coldest part of your freezer, ideally away from the door, to maintain a consistent temperature.
When properly stored, a frozen ham bone can last for several months, and sometimes even up to a year, without losing its flavor or quality. It’s a fantastic way to extend the use of your ham and to add depth and richness to future dishes. Just remember to thaw the ham bone in the refrigerator overnight before using it in your recipes. Enjoy your flavorful and thrifty culinary adventures!
Can you pressure-cook beans without soaking?
Traditionally, soaking beans overnight is recommended to reduce their cooking time and improve digestibility by breaking down some of the complex sugars that can cause gas and bloating. While soaking does offer these benefits, pressure cooking eliminates the need for this step without compromising the final results.
When you pressure-cook beans without soaking, follow these simple steps:
- Rinse the Beans: Start by rinsing the dried beans thoroughly under cold running water. This step helps remove any dust, dirt, or impurities that may be present on the beans.
- Add Water or Broth: Place the rinsed beans in the pressure cooker and add enough water or broth to cover the beans. The general rule of thumb is to use about three cups of liquid for every cup of dried beans.
- Season and Flavor (Optional): For added taste, you can add aromatics such as garlic, onions, bay leaves, or herbs to the beans and water. This step enhances the flavor of the beans as they cook.
- Seal the Pressure Cooker: Secure the lid of the pressure cooker, making sure it is tightly sealed. Set the pressure cooker to the appropriate cooking time and pressure level for the specific type of beans you are cooking. Different types of beans may require slightly different cooking times, so it’s essential to consult cooking charts or follow recommended guidelines.
- Pressure Cook: Turn on the pressure cooker and allow it to build up the desired pressure. Once the pressure is reached, the cooking process begins, and the beans cook rapidly and evenly.
- Natural Release or Quick Release: After the cooking time is up, you have two options for releasing the pressure. You can either allow the pressure to release naturally, which takes a bit more time but helps ensure the beans remain tender, or you can use the quick-release method to release the pressure immediately.
- Check for Doneness: Carefully open the pressure cooker once the pressure has been released and check the beans for doneness. They should be tender and cooked to perfection.
Cooking beans in a pressure cooker without soaking saves time and offers consistently delicious results. Plus, it allows you to enjoy the nutritional benefits of beans more readily and opens up the possibility for impromptu bean-based meals. Whether you’re preparing a comforting bean soup, a flavorful bean salad, or a hearty bean chili, pressure-cooking without soaking is a fantastic option to have in your culinary repertoire.
Instant Pot Navy Bean Soup
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (Pressure Cook: 25 minutes + Natural Pressure Release: 20 minutes)
Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients:
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 cup finely chopped celery (optional)
- 2 medium carrots, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound dried navy beans
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
- 2 ham hocks (optional)
- Fatback (optional) (score the meaty side)
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
How to Make Navy Beans in the Instant Pot:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Rinse and chop the carrots and celery (if using).
- In the Instant Pot, select the sauté setting and add the olive oil.
- Heat the oil until it shimmers (about 1 minute).
- Add the chopped onion, celery (if using), carrots, and minced garlic.
- Sauté for five minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.
- Add the Remaining Ingredients:
- Rinse the navy beans and discard any that float or have debris.
- Add the rinsed beans, low-sodium chicken broth (or water), ham hocks (if using), and fine sea salt to the Instant Pot.
- Give everything a good stir to combine the ingredients.
- Pressure Cook:
- Lock the lid into place on the Instant Pot and turn the valve to “sealing”.
- Select the Manual or Pressure Cook setting, and adjust the pressure to High.
- Set the cooking time for 25 minutes.
- The Instant Pot will take some time to reach pressure, and then the cooking process will begin.
- Natural Pressure Release:
- Once the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for 20 minutes.
- This natural pressure release allows the flavors to meld and the beans to become tender and creamy.
- Finish the Soup:
- After the 20 minutes of natural pressure release, turn the valve to “venting” to perform a quick release of any remaining pressure.
- Unlock and remove the lid from the Instant Pot.
- Test the navy beans for doneness. They should be tender and fully cooked.
- For a thicker consistency, use a fork to mash some of the beans against the side of the Instant Pot.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the delicious Instant Pot Navy Bean Soup into bowls and garnish with optional toppings like fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.
- Serve hot and enjoy the hearty, comforting flavors of this flavorful navy bean soup.
Note: For a vegetarian version, omit the ham hocks and fatback and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Additionally, you can customize the soup by adding your favorite herbs and spices for an extra burst of flavor.
Recipe Tip: Adjusting Bean Cook Time and Liquid Quantity
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Fine-Tuning Bean Cooking:
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the beans may not be cooked to perfection after the initial pressure cooking. Don’t worry; the Instant Pot has your back! If you find that your beans are slightly underdone, there’s a simple fix to achieve that tender and creamy consistency. Place the lid back on the Instant Pot, ensuring it’s secure, and turn the valve to the “sealing” position. Now, set the cooking time for an additional 5-10 minutes, depending on how underdone the beans are. Since the Instant Pot is already hot, it will come to pressure swiftly. Once the cooking time ends, exercise caution as you turn the valve to “venting” to release the pressure quickly. Now, behold your perfectly cooked beans, ready to grace your taste buds with their delightful texture and flavor.
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Achieving Thicker Beans:
If you prefer your bean soup to have a heartier, less soupy consistency, you can easily achieve this by adjusting the liquid quantity. Instead of using the standard 8 cups of liquid, reduce it to 6 cups. With a slightly lesser amount of liquid, the beans will absorb more of the broth, resulting in a thicker and more substantial base. This way, your navy bean soup will showcase a velvety, comforting texture that clings enticingly to every spoonful, offering a satisfying and fulfilling dining experience.
By mastering these tips, you can effortlessly tailor your Instant Pot Navy Bean Soup to suit your personal preferences and culinary vision. Embrace the flexibility and ingenuity that the Instant Pot provides, allowing you to finesse your recipes and transform humble ingredients into culinary masterpieces. So, the next time you embark on your navy bean soup adventure, rest assured that these tips will be your trusty companions, ensuring that each batch of bean soup is nothing short of perfection.
Can You Freeze Navy Bean Soup
Absolutely! Freezing navy bean soup is an excellent way to preserve its delicious flavors and extend its shelf life. Whether you’ve made a large batch or simply want to save some leftovers for later, freezing navy bean soup is a convenient and practical option.
Here’s how you can freeze navy bean soup properly to maintain its taste and quality:
- Allow the Soup to Cool: After cooking the navy bean soup, allow it to cool to room temperature. Avoid freezing hot soup, as it can create condensation inside the storage container, leading to freezer burn and compromising the soup’s texture and taste.
- Choose the Right Containers: Select freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags that are designed for long-term storage. For individual portions, consider using single-serving containers, which make it easier to defrost only the amount you need.
- Portion and Label: If you’re freezing in batches, divide the navy bean soup into portions before storing. Label each container or bag with the name of the soup and the date it was prepared. This labeling will help you keep track of the contents and ensure that you use the oldest soup first.
- Remove Air and Seal Tightly: When using resealable freezer bags, squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. If using containers, ensure they are sealed tightly to maintain the soup’s freshness.
- Leave Room for Expansion: Leave some space at the top of the containers or bags since liquids tend to expand when frozen. This precaution will prevent the containers from cracking or bursting in the freezer.
- Freeze Flat (For Bags): If using resealable freezer bags, freeze them flat on a baking sheet. This will make them stackable and save space in the freezer, making it easier to organize your frozen soups.
- Store Properly: Place the containers or bags in the coldest part of your freezer, away from the door, to ensure a consistent temperature and minimize temperature fluctuations.
- Defrost and Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen navy bean soup, transfer the container or bag to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can use the defrost setting on your microwave. Once thawed, reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave until it reaches your desired temperature.
Properly frozen navy bean soup can last in the freezer for up to three months without compromising taste or quality. It’s a great time-saving strategy, allowing you to have homemade, nutritious soup readily available whenever you’re in the mood for a comforting and hearty meal. Enjoy the convenience of frozen navy bean soup and savor its flavors long after it was lovingly prepared.
Give your Instant Pot a Deep Clean with this guide.
FAQs for Instant Pot Navy Bean Soup:
- Can I use canned navy beans instead of dried beans? While you can use canned navy beans for this recipe, keep in mind that canned beans are already cooked, so the cooking time will be much shorter. Adjust the cooking time accordingly and reduce the amount of liquid used in the recipe to avoid overcooking.
- Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan? Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian or vegan by omitting the ham hocks and fatback and using vegetable broth or water instead of chicken broth. The soup will still be flavorful and satisfying without the meat.
- Can I add other vegetables to the soup? Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add other vegetables to the soup, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just be mindful of the cooking time for the additional vegetables to ensure they are cooked to your desired level of tenderness.
- Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the leftover navy bean soup. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label and date the containers before freezing. The frozen soup can be kept in the freezer for up to three months.
- How can I thicken the soup if it’s too watery? If you find that the soup is too watery for your liking, you can use a fork to mash some of the beans against the side of the Instant Pot after cooking. This will help thicken the soup. Alternatively, you can simmer the soup on the sauté setting for a few minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Can I use a different type of bean? Yes, you can use other types of beans, such as Great Northern beans or cannellini beans, instead of navy beans for this recipe. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of bean you choose, so be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Can I make this soup without an Instant Pot? Absolutely! If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can still make this navy bean soup on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. For stovetop cooking, simmer the soup on low heat for about 1 to 1.5 hours until the beans are tender. For a slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beans are tender.
- Can I add meat other than ham hocks or fatback? Yes, you can customize the soup by adding other types of meat, such as diced ham, smoked sausage, or bacon. Just ensure that the meat is fully cooked before adding it to the soup and adjust the seasonings accordingly.
- How do I adjust the seasoning to my taste? The beauty of homemade soup is that you can adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. If you find the soup needs more salt or additional herbs and spices, feel free to add them gradually and taste as you go until you achieve your desired flavor profile.
- Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. Alternatively, freeze the soup for longer storage and defrost when ready to enjoy.
Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Navy Bean Soup and don’t hesitate to experiment and make it your own!
Alternative Names for this Recipe:
- Creamy Navy Bean Delight
- Instant Pot Bean Bonanza
- Hearty Navy Bean Stew
- Rapid Navy Bean Medley
- Speedy White Bean Soup
- Savory Navy Bean Potage
- Instant Pot Ham Hock Beans
- Quick & Creamy Bean Chowder
- Fast & Flavorful Bean Broth
- Express Navy Bean Cassoulet
Instant Pot Navy Bean Soup
Delicious navy beans made in the pressure cooker. No soaking is required for this Instant Pot Navy Bean soup recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 cup finely chopped celery (optional)
- 2 medium carrots finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound dried navy beans
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
- 2 ham hocks (optional)
- Fatback (optional) (score the meaty side)
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
Instructions
Preparethe Vegetables:
- Once your carrots and celery are
chopped, select the saute setting on the electric pressure cooker and add the
oil. - Heat the oil until it shimmers,
about 1 minute. - Add the onion, celery (if using),
carrots and garlic and saute for five minutes.
Add the remaining ingredients.
- Rinse the beans and discard any that
float. - Add the beans, broth, ham hocks (if
using), and salt and stir.
PressureCook
- Lock the lid into place and turn the
valve to "sealing". - Select Manual or Pressure Cook and
adjust the pressure to High. Set the time for 25 minutes. - When cooking ends, let the pressure
release naturally for 20 minutes, then turn the valve to "venting" to
quick release the pressure.
Finish the Soup:
- Unlock and remove the lid and test
the beans for doneness (see tip). - Use a fork to mash some of the beans
against the side of the Instant pot to thicken the soup to your liking.
Notes
If your beans aren't cooked quite
done, just put the lid back on, turn the valve to "sealing," and set
the time for 5-10 minutes, depending on how underdone the beans are. The pot
will come to pressure quickly because it's already hot. When cooking ends,
carefully turn the valve to "venting" to release the pressure
quickly.
If you want thicker beans, not
soupy, use 6 cups of liquid.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 441Total Fat: 19gSaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 29mgSodium: 749mgCarbohydrates: 45gFiber: 14gSugar: 5gProtein: 27g
The Nutritional Information may not be accurate. This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the USDA Food Composition Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.