traditional mexican pinto beans recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best traditional mexican pinto beans recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite traditional Mexican pinto beans recipe.

This hearty dish is a staple in many Mexican households, and for good reason – it’s delicious, nutritious, and perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or a flavorful side dish for your next family gathering, this recipe is sure to please.

I first discovered pinto beans when I was visiting my friends in Texas, where they’re a common ingredient in many traditional dishes.

Since then, I’ve been hooked on the rich flavor and versatility of these humble legumes.

Traditional Mexican Pinto Beans

4.7 from 1485 votes

This classic recipe for Mexican pinto beans is a staple in many households. It is a comforting and flavorful side dish that pairs well with various Mexican entrees.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 lb pinto beans
1 large onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic, peeled
2 bay leaves
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp vegetable oil
4 cups water

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the pinto beans under cold water and pick out any debris or small stones.
2Place the beans in a large bowl and cover with water.
3Let them soak for at least 8 hours or overnight.
4This step helps to reduce the cooking time and makes the beans more digestible.
5Drain and rinse the soaked beans.
6In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
7Add the onion and garlic, and cook until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes.
8Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
9Add the cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the pot.
10Stir to combine and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly.
11Add the drained beans, bay leaves, and water to the pot.
12Stir well to combine.
13Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
14Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes.
15Stir occasionally to prevent the beans from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
16The beans are ready when they are tender and can be easily mashed with a fork.
17Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
18Once the beans are cooked, remove the pot from the heat.
19Discard the bay leaves.
20Use a slotted spoon to transfer the beans to a serving bowl, leaving behind the cooking liquid.
21If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add some of the cooking liquid back into the beans.
22Serve the pinto beans hot with your favorite Mexican dishes.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Bowl
Strainer

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 6g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 55g🥦Dietary Fiber: 15g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

Tips: You can skip the soaking process by using the quick-soak method. Bring the beans and water to a boil, then turn off the heat and let them sit for 1 hour before draining and proceeding with the recipe. This method is convenient when you are short on time.

Watch Video Of How Traditional Mexican Pinto Beans Works

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize to your tastes. Want to add some heat?

Throw in some diced jalapenos or serrano peppers. Want to make it more substantial?

Serve with some crusty bread or over rice. And don’t even get me started on the leftovers – this recipe makes an amazing batch of refried beans that’ll keep in the fridge for days.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mexican Pinto Beans

Q: What is the difference between pinto beans and other types of beans?

Pinto beans are a type of mottled, white-and-brown bean that’s native to the Americas. They have a mild flavor and a soft texture that makes them perfect for soups, stews, and side dishes.

Q: Can I use canned pinto beans instead of cooking them from scratch?

While canned beans can be convenient, they often lack the depth of flavor and texture that you get from cooking dried beans. That being said, if you’re short on time or prefer the convenience of canned beans, go for it!

Q: How do I cook pinto beans without soaking them first?

You can cook pinto beans without soaking them first by using a pressure cooker or Instant Pot. Simply add the beans to the pot with some water and cook on high pressure for 20-30 minutes.

Q: What are some popular ways to season pinto beans?

Pinto beans are incredibly versatile and can be seasoned in countless ways. Some popular options include adding diced onions, garlic, or jalapenos for added flavor, or using herbs like cumin, oregano, or epazote to give them a more authentic Mexican taste.

Q: Can I make pinto beans in advance?

Yes! Pinto beans can be cooked ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use. Simply reheat them when you’re ready to serve.

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