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Pinto Beans - Mexican Seasonings Recipe

In this simple, one-pot recipe, pinto beans are gently simmered alongside onions, tomatoes, a touch of chili powder, cumin, and a hint of garlic, creating a comforting and delicious dish.
4 from 3 votes
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Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 3 days 20 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
8 hours
Total Time: 12 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 10

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

  • In a large bowl, combine the rinsed pinto beans with enough water to cover them by 2 to 3 inches. Allow the beans to soak overnight.
  • The next day, drain the beans and transfer them back to a large pot. Add fresh water to cover the beans, followed by the diced tomatoes with green chilies, bacon pieces, diced onion, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Give everything a good stir.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat and let the beans simmer for about 3 hours. Remember to check on them occasionally, adding more water if necessary to keep them submerged.
  • After 3 hours, mix in the chopped cilantro and salt to taste. Let the beans continue to simmer for about 1 more hour, or until they're tender and reach your preferred consistency.
  • If the bean mixture becomes too thick while cooking, simply add hot water, 1 tablespoon at a time (up to 1/4 cup), until you achieve the desired consistency.