authentic mexican pinto beans recipe

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

I’ve always been a fan of traditional Mexican cuisine, and one of my favorite dishes is pinto beans. Pinto beans are a staple in Mexican cooking, and I love how versatile they are – from soups to stews, salads to main courses, they’re always a hit.

I grew up eating pinto beans at family gatherings and special occasions, and my kids love them too. There’s something about the way they soak up flavors that just makes them irresistible.

One of my favorite recipes is for authentic Mexican pinto beans, made with love and care just like my abuela used to make. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.

I like to serve it with warm tortillas, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. The aroma alone is worth making it – the combination of spices and herbs is just incredible.

My kids love helping me cook this dish because it’s so easy to follow and the end result is always delicious. We like to make it on weekends or during school breaks when we have more time to spend together in the kitchen.

Authentic Mexican Pinto Beans

Authentic Mexican Pinto Beans

4.8 from 1972 votes

These pinto beans are slowly simmered with onion, garlic, and epazote until tender and creamy. They are a staple side dish in Mexican cuisine, perfect for tacos, burritos, or as a hearty soup.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time2 hours 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours 40 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 220 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beans

1 pound (about 2 cups) dried pinto beans, rinsed and picked over
8 cups water
1 medium white onion, peeled and halved
4 cloves garlic, peeled
1 tablespoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
1 teaspoon dried epazote (optional, but traditional)

For Serving (Optional)

Fresh cilantro, chopped
Sliced radishes
Warm corn tortillas

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the rinsed pinto beans in a large pot and add 8 cups of water.
2Add the halved onion, whole garlic cloves, and epazote if using.
3Bring the water to a vigorous boil over high heat, then immediately reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
4Partially cover the pot with a lid and let the beans simmer gently for 2 hours.
5Stir occasionally and check the water level, adding more hot water if needed to keep the beans submerged by at least an inch.
6After 2 hours, add 1 tablespoon of salt and stir well.
7Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 30 to 45 minutes, until the beans are very tender and creamy, and the liquid has thickened into a savory broth.
8The beans should mash easily when pressed against the side of the pot with a spoon.
9Taste the beans and adjust salt as needed.
10Remove the onion halves and garlic cloves if desired, or leave them in for extra flavor.
11Serve the beans warm with their broth, garnished with fresh cilantro and radishes, and with warm corn tortillas on the side.

🔧Equipment

Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven (at least 5 quart)
Colander
Knife
Cutting board
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 220 kcal🧈Total Fat: 1g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 890mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 12g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 14g

📝Notes

Soaking the beans overnight in water to cover by 2 inches can reduce cooking time by about 1 hour. If you soak them, drain and rinse before cooking with fresh water. Epazote is a traditional Mexican herb that adds a unique flavor and is said to reduce gas; it can be found in Latin markets or online.

Watch Video Of How Authentic Mexican Pinto Beans Works

This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a hearty main course.

My kids love helping me cook this dish because it’s so easy to follow and the end result is always delicious.

We like to make it on weekends or during school breaks when we have more time to spend together in the kitchen.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mexican Pinto Beans

What type of beans are pinto beans?

Pinto beans are a type of mottled, white-and-gray bean that’s commonly used in Mexican cooking.

Are pinto beans good for you?

Pinto beans are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and several important vitamins and minerals. They’re also low on the glycemic index, making them a great choice for people with diabetes or those who want to manage their blood sugar levels.

How do I cook pinto beans from scratch?

Cooking pinto beans from scratch requires soaking them overnight, then boiling them in water until they’re tender. You can also use a pressure cooker or Instant Pot to speed up the process.

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

Yes, you can use canned pinto beans as a substitute, but keep in mind that they may lack some of the flavor and texture that comes with cooking them from scratch.

How long do cooked pinto beans last in the fridge?

Cooked pinto beans can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 6 months.

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