traditional mexican beans recipe

The Best traditional mexican beans recipe

I’ve always been fascinated by the simplicity and depth of traditional Mexican beans recipe. It’s a dish that has been passed down through generations, and its beauty lies in its ability to bring people together.

My family and I have been making this recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with our kids. The aroma of slow-cooked beans wafting from the kitchen is like a warm hug on a chilly day.

It’s a dish that’s both comforting and nourishing, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. As a home cook, I appreciate how easy it is to make, and yet it’s packed with flavor and nutrients.

We love serving it with some crusty bread or over rice, and the best part is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can add your favorite toppings or use it as a base for tacos or burritos. My kids are always asking for seconds (or thirds!)

, and I’m happy to oblige. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a connection to our heritage and a reminder of the importance of sharing meals with loved ones.

Traditional Mexican Beans

4.9 from 1924 votes

A hearty and flavorful dish featuring slow-cooked pinto beans seasoned with aromatic spices. This recipe serves as a comforting side dish or a base for various Mexican meals.

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, chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
4 cups water

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the pinto beans thoroughly under cold water and pick out any debris.
2Look for beans that are discolored or have a shriveled appearance.
3Place the beans in a large pot and cover with water.
4Allow the beans to soak for at least 4 hours or overnight for optimal softness.
5This step is essential to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
6Drain and rinse the soaked beans.
7In the same pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
8Add the chopped onion and jalapeño and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the jalapeño softens, about 5 minutes.
9Stir frequently to prevent burning.
10Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
11The garlic should become fragrant and lightly golden.
12Add the drained beans, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the pot.
13Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
14Pour in the water, making sure the beans are fully submerged.
15Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
16Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes.
17The beans should be tender and easily mashed with a fork.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 400mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 15g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

Tips: For a smoky flavor, add 1/4 tsp of smoked paprika to the beans. You can also use canned pinto beans to save time, but adjust the cooking duration accordingly.

This traditional Mexican beans recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering or just a quick weeknight dinner.

The leftovers are perfect for reheating and serving over rice or with some crusty bread.

You can also store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for later use.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mexican Beans

Q: What type of beans are used in traditional Mexican beans recipe?

The recipe typically uses pinto or black beans, but you can also use other types of beans like kidney or Great Northern.

Q: Can I use canned beans instead of cooking dried beans?

While canned beans are convenient, they lack the rich flavor and texture that comes with cooking dried beans from scratch.

Q: How long does it take to cook the beans?

The cooking time will depend on the type of beans you use, but generally, it takes around 8-10 hours to cook dried beans until they’re tender.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker – simply brown the onions and garlic, then add the remaining ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work.

Q: Are there any variations on this recipe that I can try?

Yes, you can add different spices or herbs like cumin, oregano, or epazote to give the dish more depth of flavor.

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