Introduction
The recipe for this hearty and flavorful pinto bean dish is perfect for those who enjoy a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian option, a side dish, or a main course, this recipe accommodates all preferences. The combination of pinto beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a delightful stew-like consistency that is sure to please your palate.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound dried pinto beans, sorted for stones and shriveled beans, rinsed and drained
3 cups water
1 (14.5-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes, undrained
12 ounces beer (regular or nonalcoholic)
1 medium bell pepper, any color, chopped
1/2 medium onion (yellow preferred), finely chopped
1 to 2 medium fresh jalapeños, seeds and ribs discarded, finely chopped (optional)
1 teaspoon minced garlic or 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon chili powder
3/4 teaspoon salt
Prep Time
The preparation time for this recipe is approximately 20 minutes, allowing you to gather your ingredients and properly prepare the beans and vegetables.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is about 8 hours on high in a slow cooker. Therefore, the total time to make this dish comes to around 8 hours and 20 minutes, yielding approximately 6 servings. Enjoy this delicious meal on its own or with your favorite accompaniments!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Soak the Beans
Sort through 1 pound of dried pinto beans, removing any stones and shriveled beans. Rinse the beans under cold water and drain them well in a colander.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Transfer the soaked and drained beans to a 5- to 7-quart slow cooker.
Step 3: Add Ingredients
Stir in 3 cups of water, 1 (14.5-ounce) can of no-salt-added diced tomatoes (undrained), 12 ounces of beer (either regular or nonalcoholic), 1 medium chopped bell pepper (any color), 1/2 medium finely chopped onion (yellow preferred), 1 to 2 finely chopped fresh jalapeños (seeds and ribs discarded, optional), 1 teaspoon of minced garlic or 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, and 3/4 teaspoon of salt.
Step 4: Cook the Beans
Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 8 hours, or until the beans are softened.
Notes
Note 1: Bean Soaking
Soaking beans helps to soften them and can reduce cooking time, as well as improve digestibility.
Note 2: Adjusting Spice Level
You can adjust the number of jalapeños based on your preferred spice level. For a milder dish, omit the jalapeños entirely or use only one.
Note 3: Storage
Leftover beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
These beans can be enjoyed on their own or served with rice, tortillas, or as a topping for tacos and nachos.
Cook techniques
Soaking the Beans
Soak the dried pinto beans according to the package directions to help soften them and reduce cooking time. This step also aids in digestibility.
Slow Cooking
Use a slow cooker to allow the flavors to meld together while the beans cook. The low and slow method breaks down the beans, resulting in a creamy texture.
Using Beer
Incorporating beer adds depth to the flavor profile of the dish. Choose a regular or nonalcoholic beer based on preference.
Chopping Vegetables
Ensure that bell peppers, onions, and jalapeños are finely chopped to blend seamlessly into the dish, enhancing flavor without large chunks.
Seasoning
Adjust seasoning, including salt and spices like chili powder, to taste. Adding these ingredients at the start allows them to infuse throughout the cooking process.
Cooking Time
Cook on high for 8 hours or until beans are soft. This duration allows the beans to become tender and absorb the surrounding flavors.
Checking for Doneness
Test the beans towards the end of cooking to ensure they are adequately soft. You can mash a few beans against the side of the slow cooker for desired tenderness.
FAQ
How do I know when the beans are done cooking?
The beans are done when they are soft and easily mashable. This usually takes around 8 hours on high.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you’ll need to peel and chop them. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
You can cook the beans in a pot on the stovetop, but you will need to monitor the cooking time closely and possibly add more water.
Can I substitute pinto beans with another type?
Yes, you can substitute pinto beans with other types of dried beans such as black beans or kidney beans, but cooking times may vary.
Is it necessary to soak the beans before cooking?
Soaking is not strictly necessary but helps to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with rice, tortillas, or cornbread and can be topped with cheese, sour cream, or avocado for added flavor.
Conclusion
The slow-cooked pinto beans prepared with a mix of flavorful ingredients create a hearty dish that is both nutritious and satisfying. The combination of diced tomatoes, beer, and spices enriches the natural taste of the beans, making it a perfect meal for gatherings or a comforting dinner at home. Enjoy the robust flavors while knowing you have a wholesome option for any occasion.
Spicy Bean Tacos
Transform the cooked beans into delicious tacos by adding your favorite toppings such as avocado, shredded cheese, and cilantro. Serve in corn tortillas for a delightful meal.
Vegetarian Chili
Use the cooked pinto beans as a base for a vegetarian chili. Add corn, additional spices, and other beans for a rich and filling dish.
Bean Soup
Blend some of the cooked beans with vegetable broth to create a creamy bean soup. Serve with crusty bread for a comforting lunch or dinner.
Quesadillas
Combine the cooked pinto beans with cheese and other fillings like spinach or mushrooms, and grill between tortillas for a satisfying quesadilla.
Stuffed Peppers
Mix the pinto beans with rice and spices, then stuff into bell peppers. Bake until the peppers are tender for a flavorful and healthy meal.
