1. The problem asks to convert the mixed number $1 \frac{4}{5}$ into an improper fraction. 2. A mixed number consists of a whole number and a fraction. To convert it to an improper fraction, multiply the whole number by the denominator of the fraction and add the numerator. 3. The formula is: $$\text{Improper fraction} = \frac{(\text{whole number} \times \text{denominator}) + \text{numerator}}{\text{denominator}}$$ 4. For $1 \frac{4}{5}$, the whole number is 1, the numerator is 4, and the denominator is 5. 5. Calculate the numerator of the improper fraction: $$1 \times 5 + 4 = 5 + 4 = 9$$ 6. So the improper fraction is: $$\frac{9}{5}$$ 7. This fraction is greater than one, as required. Final answer: $\frac{9}{5}$ cups of beans are used in the recipe.