Pinto Beans with Mexican Style Seasonings

This delicious Pinto Beans with Mexican Style Seasonings recipe is a flavorful and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Combining tender pinto beans with smoky bacon, savory spices like chili powder and cumin, and a burst of fresh cilantro, this recipe creates a satisfying side dish or main course. Easy to make with just a few simple ingredients, this Mexican-inspired recipe is perfect for pairing with tacos, burritos, grilled meats, or even served over rice for a filling vegetarian option. Whether you’re looking for a traditional comfort food or a flavorful new addition to your meal rotation, this recipe is sure to please!

Ingredients

• 1 lb dried pinto beans, rinsed
• 2 (10 oz) cans diced tomatoes
• ½ lb bacon, cut into ½-inch pieces
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 1 tbsp chili powder (or to taste)
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ bunch cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Soak the Beans: Begin by soaking the pinto beans overnight in water, ensuring they’re covered by 2-3 inches of water. Drain the beans before cooking.
2. Cook the Bacon and Vegetables: In a large pot, combine the drained beans, chopped onion, and bacon. Cook over medium heat until the bacon is browned and the onions are softened.
3. Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the two cans of diced tomatoes along with the chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer: Pour in enough fresh water to cover the beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Add Cilantro: After 3 hours, stir in the chopped cilantro and cook for an additional hour, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

• Soaking the Beans: If you’re short on time, use the quick soak method by boiling the beans for 2 minutes, then covering and letting them sit for 1 hour.
• Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the chili powder and cumin levels to suit your preferred spice level. For more heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Substitutes: If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can skip the bacon and use vegetable broth or olive oil for flavor. You can also use smoked paprika for an added smoky taste.

FAQs

• Can I use canned pinto beans instead? You can substitute canned pinto beans, but the texture will differ, and you won’t need to soak or simmer them as long. Just heat and add the spices for flavor.
• Can I freeze these beans? Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow the beans to cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• How do I make these beans spicier? Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking, or use extra chili powder.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dish: Serve these pinto beans as a side dish alongside grilled meats, tacos, or burritos for a delicious Mexican meal.
• Main Course: Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and avocado for a hearty, satisfying vegetarian main course.
• Pair with Rice: Serve over a bed of white or brown rice to complete the meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe This pinto beans recipe with Mexican-style seasonings offers rich, savory flavors and a wonderful balance of spice and smokiness. The bacon adds depth to the dish, while the cilantro brings a fresh, bright finish. Perfect for family meals, meal prep, or a comforting side dish at any gathering, these beans are sure to satisfy all tastes.

Table of Contents

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Pinto Beans with Mexican Style Seasonings

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

4

hours 

Ingredients

• 1 lb dried pinto beans, rinsed

• 2 (10 oz) cans diced tomatoes

• ½ lb bacon, cut into ½-inch pieces

• 1 yellow onion, chopped

• 1 tbsp chili powder (or to taste)

• 1 tbsp cumin

• 1 ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ bunch cilantro, chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

• Soak the Beans: Begin by soaking the pinto beans overnight in water, ensuring they’re covered by 2-3 inches of water. Drain the beans before cooking.
• Cook the Bacon and Vegetables: In a large pot, combine the drained beans, chopped onion, and bacon. Cook over medium heat until the bacon is browned and the onions are softened.
• Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the two cans of diced tomatoes along with the chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Simmer: Pour in enough fresh water to cover the beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
• Add Cilantro: After 3 hours, stir in the chopped cilantro and cook for an additional hour, allowing the flavors to meld together.