Spicy Hot Beans: A Flavorful One-Dish Meal
When it comes to hearty and fulfilling meals, few dishes can match the comforting essence of a pot of spicy hot beans. This particular recipe has become a family favorite, cherished by my father-in-law and husband for its rich flavors and satisfying warmth. However, fair warning: this dish packs a punch, and it may be too hot for some sensitive stomachs. With a preparation time of just 40 minutes and a cooking time of about 2 hours and 30 minutes, you can create a sumptuous one-dish meal that serves approximately ten people, perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home.
Recipe Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Spicy Hot Beans |
| Category | One Dish Meal |
| Prep Time | 40 minutes |
| Cook Time | 2 hours 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 3 hours 10 minutes |
| Servings | 10 servings |
| Calories | 600.8 per serving |
| Rating | 5/5 (1 review) |
Ingredients
This recipe utilizes a variety of ingredients, combining the earthy taste of beans with the rich flavors of meats and spices, resulting in a dish that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dried pinto beans | 1 pound |
| Water | 6 cups |
| Bacon | 1 pound |
| Smoked link sausage | 1 pound |
| Onions | 2 medium, chopped |
| Green bell pepper | 1, chopped |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1/4 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1/4 to 1/3 cup |
| Ground cumin | 2 teaspoons |
| Chili powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Celery seed | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Tomatoes | 1 can (14.5 oz) diced |
Nutritional Information
This dish is as nutritious as it is hearty. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 600.8 kcal |
| Total Fat | 36.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 61.8 mg |
| Sodium | 1397.8 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 42.9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.7 g |
| Sugars | 9.4 g |
| Protein | 26.4 g |
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare your spicy hot beans, ensuring that each ingredient melds together perfectly for a delightful dining experience:
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Prepare the Beans: Begin by picking over and washing the dried pinto beans to remove any debris. Place the cleaned beans in a large soup pot.
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Soaking the Beans: Cover the beans with water and allow them to soak for about 8 hours, preferably overnight. This soaking process is crucial for ensuring that the beans cook evenly and become tender.
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Drain and Rinse: After the soaking period, drain the beans and return them to the soup pot.
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Add Fresh Water: Pour in 6 cups of fresh water, providing the necessary liquid for the cooking process.
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Cook the Meats: In a skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon, smoked link sausage, diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook this mixture until the meat is nicely browned and the vegetables have softened, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes. After cooking, drain any excess grease, and transfer the mixture to the pot with the beans.
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Season the Pot: To the bean pot, add the Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, ground cumin, chili powder, pepper, celery seed, salt, and bay leaf. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
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Bring to a Boil: Heat the pot over medium-high heat until the mixture reaches a rolling boil. This step helps to blend the flavors before reducing the heat.
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Simmer the Beans: Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Allow the beans to simmer for about 2 hours or until they reach the desired tenderness. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the beans from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
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Add Tomatoes: After 2 hours, add the diced tomatoes with their juice to the pot. Stir gently and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Final Touches: Once the cooking time is complete, remove the bay leaf and taste for seasoning, adjusting if necessary.
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Serve: Serve the spicy hot beans in bowls, accompanied by crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal that warms the soul.
This spicy hot beans recipe is sure to become a staple in your home, loved by all who try it. With its delightful combination of heat and hearty ingredients, it captures the essence of comfort food perfectly. Enjoy this flavorful dish with family and friends, and prepare to share the warmth and comfort it brings to the table.
