Soulful Pinto Beans from Humble Bean to Culinary Dream

Recipe Introduction

Ever wondered how to make pinto beans that taste like your grandma's secret recipe? Honestly, perfect pinto beans are easier than you think! This recipe creates flavourful, creamy pinto beans recipe you'll want to eat straight from the pot.

Soulful Start: A Humble Bean Story

This easy pinto bean recipe has roots deep in Southern comfort food. The recipe is simple. Think of it as elevated baked beans.

It's an easy recipe taking about 2 to 3 hours to be ready, and a serving size of 6-8 people.

Why You'll Love These Beans

These aren't just tasty. They're packed with protein and fibre! Great for a budget friendly meal or a crowd pleasing side. They’re super versatile, too.

Serve with tacos, rice or even a good old Pinto Bean Bowl . Honestly, the best pinto beans recipe is super versatile and the best side dish to any meal!

Next up, let's gather all you need!

Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Pinto Beans Recipe

Right then, let's get down to brass tacks! Before we dive into how to make pinto beans , let's talk about the bits and bobs you'll need.

Don't worry; it's nothing too fancy, just good, honest ingredients. I'm a bit of a scullery maid myself.

Main Ingredients: The Pinto Posse

Here's what you'll need for the perfect pinto beans :

• Dried Pinto Beans: 1 pound (450g) . Go for beans that look plump and aren't cracked.
• Water: 8 cups (1.9L) for cooking, plus extra for soaking.
• Yellow Onion: 1 large , diced. Brown or white works as well, you know?
• Garlic: 4 cloves , minced.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon .
• Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon . This is what brings that smokey flavour.
• Dried Cumin: ½ teaspoon .
• Cayenne Pepper: ¼ teaspoon (optional). If you want a kick.
• Bay Leaves: 2 .
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon .
• Ham Hock or Smoked Bacon: 1 ham hock or 4 ounces (113g) . Totally optional, but adds a proper bit of depth.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon , or to taste. Remember, season as you go.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon , or to taste.

To Finish (Optional):

• Apple Cider Vinegar (or Lemon Juice): 1 tablespoon . This is my secret for making creamy pinto beans recipe , keeps that acidity.
• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped, for garnish.

Seasoning Notes: The Flavour Boosters

Honestly, the spices are where the magic happens. Smoked paprika and cumin are your base. Want it more Southern style pinto beans? Bump up the smoked paprika.

No smoked paprika? A dash of liquid smoke works wonders. A pinch of cayenne adds a wee kick. Bay leaves and oregano add that savoury depth.

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple

You don't need a load of fancy gadgets. How to cook pinto beans from scratch is very easy:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: This is your workhorse.
• Colander: For draining those beans.
• Large Spoon: For stirring. Wooden is best, innit?

Fancy a beans in crock pot experience? Chuck it all in there on low for about 6- 8 hours. If you fancy a Crockpot Chili Beans Recipe , this recipe works perfectly, you can even add a few chillies in there!

There you have it. Now, let's get cooking! A Pinto Bean Bowl is a fantastic way to enjoy these.

Soulful Pinto Beans: From Humble Bean to Culinary Dream

Right then, let's talk Perfect Pinto Beans . Honestly, I used to think beans were boring. Just something your nan makes, yeah? But, oh my gosh, these soulful pinto beans have totally changed my mind! Forget boring! We're talking flavour bombs here.

This is about how to make pinto beans sing!

Prep Like a Pro: Pinto Bean Power-Up!

First things first: mise en place . Sounds fancy, right? It just means getting everything ready. Rinse 1 pound (450g) of dried pinto beans.

Pick out any little stones. This is super important. Nobody wants to crunch on a rock! Dice 1 large yellow onion and mince 4 cloves garlic.

Easy peasy. This bit of work upfront will make the cooking process flow so much better.

Pinto Perfection: step-by-step!

1. Soak those beans! Cover them with water and leave them overnight. If you're in a rush, boil them for 2 minutes , then let them sit for 1 hour . Honestly? The overnight soak is worth it.
2. Sauté the aromatics. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a big pot. Add the onion and cook until soft. Then, add the garlic. Don't let it burn!
3. Spice it up! Stir in 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon dried cumin, and maybe a pinch of cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute . If you're using it, chuck in 4 ounces (113g) diced smoked bacon too!
4. Simmer! Add the drained beans, 8 cups (1.9L) of water, 2 bay leaves, and optionally a ham hock to the pot. Bring to a boil, then turn the heat down low, cover, and simmer for 2- 3 hours . Keep an eye on it.
5. Finish! Remove the bay leaves and ham hock. Shred the ham (if used) and put it back in. Taste and add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper as needed. Stir in 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.
6. Serve! Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Crockpot Chili Beans Recipe and beyond

Want the easy pinto bean recipe version? You can cook beans in crock pot. Low and slow, like a Sunday roast! Also, if you want a Pinto Bean Bowl , just add rice and your favourite toppings.

Pro Tips for Southern Style Pinto Beans

Want creamy pinto beans recipe perfection? Don’t skip the soak. I’ve tried, and honestly, they just don’t cook as evenly.

Also, season generously. Beans need salt! Don't be shy. If you're making these in advance, they'll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days .

These beans are great on their own or as part of slow cooker pinto beans , so enjoy!

Recipe Notes for the Best Pinto Beans Recipe

Right then, let's talk shop about these Soulful Pinto Beans . This isn't just how to make pinto beans ; it's about making amazing pinto beans.

We're talking next level deliciousness. I've been cooking this recipe for years, tweaking it here and there based on whatever I've got in the cupboard, or based on my mood.

Honestly, some of the best meals are the ones that come about when you're just winging it, you know?

Serving Suggestions: From Pinto Bean Bowl to BBQ Sides

Fancy schmancy plating isn't really my thing, but a sprinkle of fresh cilantro always makes everything look a bit posher, doesn't it? For a proper Pinto Bean Bowl , ladle the beans over rice with a dollop of soured cream.

Trust me. These beans are cracking with BBQ ribs or brisket. Think of them as the perfect southern style pinto beans side.

A cold beer always goes down well with this too.

Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh

If you've got leftovers and honestly, who doesn't? pop them in an airtight container in the fridge. They'll be good for about 3-4 days.

You can also freeze them. Just let them cool completely first. Reheating is easy: just microwave them or gently simmer them in a pot.

Add a splash of water if they seem a bit dry.

Variations: Adapt Away!

Feeling spicy? Chuck in a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce. No meat? No worries! Leave out the bacon and add a bit more smoked paprika.

For a vegetarian/vegan version of these creamy pinto beans recipe , add a splash of vegetable broth. Easy peasy. If you want to change it around based on the seasons, roast some squash to add to the mix

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bowl

Beans are brilliant. They're packed with protein and fibre. So, you are having something that will make you feel full.

Each serving contains roughly 250-350 calories, 15-20g of protein, and a whopping 15-20g of fibre. Basically, they're good for your gut and your muscles.

Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free. Winning!

So there you have it! Now you know how to cook pinto beans from scratch . This easy pinto bean recipe can make you feel like you are a professional.

Don’t be scared to experiment and make these perfect pinto beans your own. You'll have amazing beans in crock pot in no time.

Get cooking!.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really have to soak the pinto beans before cooking them?

Soaking isn't strictly mandatory, but it's a bit like queuing for Wimbledon tickets it pays off! Soaking helps the beans cook more evenly and reduces the overall cooking time, plus it can help reduce any, ahem, "musical" side effects.

If you're short on time, a quick soak (boiling for a couple of minutes then letting them sit for an hour) is better than nothing.

How long does it take to make pinto beans from scratch?

Making pinto beans is a bit like watching a good cricket match it requires patience! After a 20 minute prep and if you skip the pre-soak, expect them to simmer away for 2-3 hours on the hob until they're beautifully tender.

Soaking beforehand can shave off some time, but it's still a bit of a commitment perfect for a lazy Sunday arvo. Of course pressure cooking or an instapot will greatly decrease the time!

What can I add to my pinto beans to give them more flavour?

Flavour is key, innit? Besides the recipe suggestions of smoked paprika, cumin and bacon/ham hock consider adding some chopped jalapenos for a bit of a kick. Alternatively, a bay leaf or two during cooking always adds a subtle depth, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce towards the end.

Experiment and find your signature flavour profile!

How to make pinto beans vegetarian or vegan?

Turning these beans into a vegetarian or vegan delight is easier than baking a Victoria sponge! Simply omit the bacon or ham hock. To compensate for the smoky flavour, up the smoked paprika a little. A tablespoon of vegetable bouillon is a tasty replacement for a ham hock flavour!

How should I store leftover pinto beans?

Leftover pinto beans are brilliant for quick meals! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. They also freeze beautifully. Portion them into freezer bags or containers for easy use.

Defrost them in the fridge overnight or gently reheat on the hob or in the microwave - Bob's your uncle, a meal in a pinch!