Bacon ‘n Pinto Beans Recipe
Overview
Bacon ‘n Pinto Beans are a hearty and savory dish perfect for complementing a BBQ supper or as a standalone meal. These beans are simmered slowly to enhance their flavor, making them ideal for preparation a day ahead to maximize taste. Paired with hamburgers and a fresh green salad, they create a satisfying and delicious meal.
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 10
Ingredients
- 2 cups dry pinto beans
- 1 lb bacon, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp salt, or to taste
Instructions
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Prepare the Beans:
- In a heavy saucepan, cover the dry pinto beans with water and bring to a boil. Drain the beans.
- Cover the beans with water again, ensuring the water level is about 2 inches above the beans.
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Add Ingredients:
- To the saucepan, add the chopped bacon, diced tomatoes, ground cumin, chili powder, and minced garlic. These ingredients will infuse the beans with rich, smoky flavors.
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Simmer the Beans:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer the beans uncovered until they are very soft, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and the beans to become tender.
- If needed, add more water during cooking to keep the beans submerged.
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Season to Taste:
- Once the beans are tender, season with salt to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference for a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
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Optional Overnight Rest:
- For optimal flavor, allow the beans to cool and sit overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to develop further. Reheat the beans gently before serving, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Bacon ‘n Pinto Beans hot alongside your favorite BBQ dishes, hamburgers, or as a delicious standalone dish. Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 277.7
- Total Fat: 21.7g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30.9mg
- Sodium: 531.5mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 13.3g
- Dietary Fiber: 0.8g
- Sugar: 0.8g
- Protein: 10.7g
Tips for Perfect Beans
- Soak for Better Texture: For even softer beans, soak them overnight before cooking. This reduces cooking time and improves texture.
- Adjust Spices: Tailor the spice levels to your preference. Increase chili powder for a spicier kick or add smoked paprika for additional depth of flavor.
- Storage: Leftover beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Conclusion
Bacon ‘n Pinto Beans offer a delightful combination of smoky bacon, hearty beans, and aromatic spices, making them a standout addition to any meal. Whether enjoyed with BBQ fare or as a comforting dish on its own, these beans are sure to please with their robust flavors and satisfying texture. Prepare them ahead to allow the flavors to mature, and enjoy a taste of homemade comfort with every bite.