If you’re craving a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine, look no further than these mouthwatering Mexican Seasoned Pinto Beans. This recipe combines the earthy richness of pinto beans with the zesty kick of Mexican spices, creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving these beans as a side dish or making them the star of your meal, they’re sure to be a hit at your table.
Who Will Love This Recipe?
This Mexican Pinto Beans recipe is perfect for:
- Mexican Food Enthusiasts: If you love the bold and vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine, these beans will transport your taste buds south of the border.
- Home Cooks: Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting in the kitchen, this recipe is accessible and rewarding.
- Meal Preppers: These beans can be made in large batches and frozen, making them a convenient option for meal prepping.
- Vegetarians and Meat Lovers: This dish can be enjoyed by both vegetarians and those who prefer a little meaty indulgence thanks to the addition of bacon.
What Makes It Special?
Our Mexican Seasoned Pinto Beans stand out because of:
- The Perfect Blend of Flavors: These beans are seasoned with chili powder, ground cumin, and garlic powder, creating a harmonious fusion of spices.
- Bacon Infusion: Slices of bacon add a smoky, savory flavor that complements the beans beautifully.
- Freshness of Cilantro: Chopped cilantro brings a refreshing and herby element to the dish, balancing out the richness of the beans.
- Customizable Heat: You can adjust the level of spiciness to your liking by modifying the amount of chili powder and cumin.
Tips for the Perfect Mexican Pinto Beans
To ensure your Mexican Seasoned Pinto Beans turn out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips:
- Soaking Beans: Don’t skip the soaking step. It helps the beans cook more evenly and reduces cooking time.
- Bacon Selection: Use high-quality bacon for the best flavor. You can also try turkey bacon as a leaner alternative.
- Customize the Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili powder and ground cumin.
- Serve with Accompaniments: These beans pair wonderfully with Mexican rice, tortillas, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers, jalapeños, or your favorite hot sauce to customize the flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried pinto beans, rinsed
- ½ pound bacon, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 4 cups water (or as needed)
- 2 (10-ounce) cans diced tomatoes with green chilies (like RO*TEL®)
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder (adjustable to taste)
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin (adjustable to taste)
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder (adjustable to taste)
- ½ bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Soak the Pinto Beans
In a large bowl, place the rinsed pinto beans and cover them with water, leaving about 2 to 3 inches of water above the beans. Allow them to soak overnight.
Step 2: Begin the Cooking Process
The next day, drain the soaked beans and transfer them back to a large pot.
Add enough fresh water to cover the beans, and then incorporate the diced tomatoes with green chilies, bacon pieces, diced onion, chili powder, ground cumin, and garlic powder. Mix all these ingredients together thoroughly.
Step 3: Start Simmering
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat and let the beans simmer for approximately 3 hours. Make sure to check them periodically and add more water if needed to keep the beans submerged.
Step 4: Add Cilantro and Salt
After 3 hours of simmering, introduce the chopped cilantro and season with salt to taste.
Step 5: Continue Simmering
Let the beans simmer for an additional hour or until they become tender and reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Adjust Consistency
If the bean mixture thickens too much during cooking, you can add hot water, one tablespoon at a time (up to 1/4 cup), to achieve the desired consistency.
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