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Homemade Pinto Beans Recipe photo

Pinto Beans Recipe

This Pinto Beans Recipe is a creamy delight! Packed with flavor, it's perfect as a side dish or a hearty main.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time2 hours
Total Time2 hours 15 minutes
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy, Healthy, Vegan, Vegetarian
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Beans:

  • 1 cup dried pinto beans
  • 1 unit white onion quartered
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 unit jalapeño pepper diced (remove seeds for less heat)
  • a pinch salt
  • a pinch pepper
  • Water (enough to cover the beans)

Instructions

Preparation Steps:

  • Begin by rinsing the dried pinto beans under cold water in a strainer. This will help remove any dust or debris.
  • For a quicker cooking time and easier digestion, soak the beans in water overnight. If you’re pressed for time, you can skip this step and cook them directly, though it may take a bit longer.
  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the rinsed (and soaked, if applicable) pinto beans, quartered onion, minced garlic, diced jalapeño, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  • Pour enough water into the pot to cover the beans by about two inches. This ensures they have enough liquid to cook properly.
  • Place the pot over high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low.
  • Cover the pot and let the beans simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they are tender. Stir occasionally and check the water level, adding more if necessary to keep the beans submerged.
  • Once the beans are cooked through, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as desired.
  • Remove the pot from heat. You can serve the beans as is, or mash them slightly for a creamier texture. Enjoy your Pinto Beans Recipe as a side dish, in tacos, or atop a salad!

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven
  • Strainer
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Wooden Spoon

Notes

  • This recipe uses pantry staples that are often already in your kitchen.
  • Dried pinto beans can be stored for long periods, making them a reliable ingredient.
  • You can customize the spice level based on your preference by adjusting the jalapeño amount.