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Heavenly Pinto Bean Spice Pie

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Pinto Bean Pie is an intriguing dessert that showcases the versatility of beans beyond savory dishes. This unique pie combines the humble pinto bean with a symphony of spices and a rich custard base to create a dessert that’s both unexpected and delightful. Let’s delve into the details of this recipe, exploring its ingredients, preparation steps, nutritional content, and potential variations to suit different tastes.

Pinto Bean Pie Recipe

Overview

  • Name: Pinto Bean Pie
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Description: A unique and flavorful pie made with pinto beans, perfect for dessert or a healthy sweet treat.
  • Recipe Category: Pie
  • Keywords: Dessert, Healthy, Weeknight, Under 4 Hours
  • Aggregated Rating: 5/5
  • Review Count: 1
  • Calories: 2644.3 per pie
  • Fat Content: 75.5 g
  • Saturated Fat Content: 20.3 g
  • Cholesterol Content: 589.1 mg
  • Sodium Content: 1025.1 mg
  • Carbohydrate Content: 455.5 g
  • Fiber Content: 31.8 g
  • Sugar Content: 302.7 g
  • Protein Content: 45.6 g
  • Recipe Yield: 1 “9 inch pie”
  • Recipe Servings: Not specified (typically serves 8-10)

Ingredients

  1. Sugar – 1 1/2 cups
  2. Ground allspice – 1 teaspoon
  3. Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
  4. Ground nutmeg – 1 teaspoon
  5. Pinto beans (cooked and mashed) – 1 1/2 cups
  6. Egg – 1 large
  7. Egg yolks – 2
  8. Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
  9. Pie crust – 1 (9-inch, unbaked)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Spice Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground allspice, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Mix thoroughly until the spices and sugar are well blended.

  2. Create the Filling: Add 1 1/2 cups of cooked and mashed pinto beans, 1 large egg, 2 egg yolks, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the bowl with the sugar and spice mixture. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This mixture forms the custard base for the pie.

  3. Assemble the Pie: Pour the filling into the unbaked 9-inch pie crust, spreading it evenly.

  4. Initial Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie on the middle rack and bake for 15 minutes.

  5. Reduce Heat and Continue Baking: After the initial baking, reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C). Continue baking the pie for an additional 45 minutes, or until the filling is set. You can test this by inserting a knife or toothpick into the center of the pie; if it comes out clean, the pie is done.

  6. Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing and serving. This step is crucial as it helps the filling to firm up and makes slicing easier.

Detailed Ingredient Breakdown

  • Sugar: Provides sweetness and structure to the filling.
  • Ground Allspice: Adds a warm, peppery note that complements the cinnamon and nutmeg.
  • Ground Cinnamon: Enhances the overall flavor with its distinctive warmth and sweetness.
  • Ground Nutmeg: Adds a nutty, slightly sweet flavor.
  • Pinto Beans: The star ingredient, providing a creamy texture and added nutritional benefits. Pinto beans are high in protein and fiber.
  • Egg and Egg Yolks: Act as binders, giving the filling its custard-like texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor and enhances the sweetness of the pie.
  • Pie Crust: The base that holds the filling. You can use a store-bought crust or make your own for a more personalized touch.

Nutritional Information

  • Total Calories: 2644.3 per pie
  • Fat: 75.5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 20.3 g
  • Cholesterol: 589.1 mg
  • Sodium: 1025.1 mg
  • Carbohydrates: 455.5 g
  • Fiber: 31.8 g
  • Sugars: 302.7 g
  • Protein: 45.6 g

Cooking Tips

  • Texture of Beans: Make sure the pinto beans are well-cooked and mashed to a smooth consistency before adding them to the filling. This ensures the pie has a creamy texture without any bean chunks.
  • Blind Baking the Crust: For a crisper crust, you may blind bake the pie crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. To do this, line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans, then bake at 350°F (175°C).
  • Spice Variations: Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your taste. You can also experiment with other spices such as cloves or ginger for a different flavor profile.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve the pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added indulgence.

Variations

  1. Healthier Option: Reduce the sugar by half or substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also use a whole-grain or nut-based crust for added fiber and nutrients.

  2. Nut Addition: Add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts to the filling for added crunch and flavor. You can also sprinkle nuts on top before baking.

  3. Chocolate Twist: Incorporate 1/4 cup of cocoa powder into the filling for a chocolatey version of this pie. Chocolate pairs well with the spices and the beans.

  4. Fruit Infusion: Add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries into the filling. They add a chewy texture and a burst of sweetness.

  5. Dairy-Free Version: Use a dairy-free pie crust and substitute the egg with a flax or chia seed egg for a vegan option. Make sure to use a plant-based vanilla extract as well.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Storage: Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It should keep for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the pie before baking by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
  • Make-Ahead: The filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Pour into the pie crust and bake when ready to serve.

A Closer Look at Pinto Beans

Pinto beans are a common staple in many households due to their affordability and nutritional benefits. They are rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them an excellent ingredient for both savory and sweet dishes. In this pie, the pinto beans provide a creamy texture and a subtle flavor that blends well with the spices and sweetness of the filling. Their high fiber content also contributes to a more filling and satisfying dessert, and their protein helps balance the pie’s nutritional profile.

Conclusion

Pinto Bean Pie is a delightful and unexpected dessert that brings together the earthiness of pinto beans and the warmth of spices into a smooth, custardy filling. It’s a fantastic way to use pantry staples in a creative and delicious manner. Whether you’re looking for a healthier dessert option, a unique dish to impress your guests, or just a new way to enjoy beans, this pie is sure to satisfy. Enjoy it plain or with your favorite toppings, and relish the surprising flavors and textures this pie has to offer.

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