Description
Craving comfort food? This [Pinto Beans Recipe] uses 5 easy steps for a smoky, savory pot. Perfect for tacos, bowls, or soups. Cook it now!
Ingredients
Core Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried pinto beans (or 3 cans of pinto beans, drained and rinsed)
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp cumin (for warm, earthy depth)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (adds a subtle smoky kick)
- 1 tsp salt, to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 6 cups water or low-sodium broth (broth adds more flavor)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 jalapeño, chopped (for heat)
- ½ tsp chili powder (adds complexity)
- 1 smoked ham hock or turkey leg (for Southern-style flavor)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or bacon grease (for richness)
Instructions
If using dried beans, soak them overnight in a large bowl with plenty of water. In a rush? Do a quick soak: boil beans for 5 minutes, then let sit for 1 hour.
Tip: Soaking reduces cooking time and improves digestibility by breaking down complex sugars.
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Toss in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Flavor Boost: This step is where the foundation of flavor begins—don’t skip it!
Drain soaked beans and add them to the pot. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, pepper, bay leaf, and your choice of chili powder or jalapeño. Pour in water or broth.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover partially and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. Add salt during the last 30 minutes to prevent tough beans.
Instant Pot Users: Pressure cook on High for 30 minutes, then natural release.
Once beans are tender and creamy, remove bay leaf and taste-test. Adjust salt and spices as needed. Serve
- Prep Time: PT10M
- Cook Time: PT1H30M
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 245 kcal
- Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 15g
- Protein: 15g
Keywords: Pinto Beans Recipe