If you’re craving a warm, comforting, and flavorful side dish, look no further than these Homemade Pinto Beans with Bacon. Slow-cooked to perfection with rich spices, savory bacon, and a touch of fresh cilantro, these beans are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, a cozy family dinner, or just want a hearty, protein-packed meal, this pinto bean recipe is sure to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Pinto Beans with Bacon recipe is:
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
- Flavorful and Savory: Infused with bacon, onions, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices.
- Hearty and Filling: A great source of protein and fiber, making it a satisfying main dish or side.
- Versatile: Serve it with rice, cornbread, or your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes.
These beans are sure to become a family favorite, and they’re even better as leftovers once the flavors have had time to meld.
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
- 1½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ bunch of cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven – for cooking the beans
- Cutting board and knife – for chopping the onion, bacon, and cilantro
- Mixing spoon – to stir the ingredients
- Measuring spoons – for the spices
- Colander – to rinse and drain the beans
- Ladle – for serving
How to Make Pinto Beans from Scratch
Step 1: Soak the Beans
- Rinse and Soak: Rinse 1 lb of dried pinto beans thoroughly under cold water.
- Soak Overnight: Place the beans in a large bowl and cover with water (about 2-3 inches above the beans). Let them soak overnight. This helps to soften the beans and reduce cooking time.
Step 2: Cook the Beans
- Drain and Rinse: The next day, drain the soaked beans and give them another quick rinse.
- Combine Ingredients: Place the drained beans in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add:
- ½ lb bacon, cut into ½ inch pieces
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 (10 oz) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Add Water and Cook: Pour in enough freshwater to cover the beans. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Add Fresh Cilantro and Finish Cooking
- Add Cilantro: After 3 hours of simmering, stir in ½ bunch of chopped cilantro.
- Cook More: Let the beans continue to cook for another hour until tender and flavorful.
- Taste and Season: Taste the beans and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the pinto beans hot with your favorite toppings and side dishes.
Tips and Variations
- Quick Soak Method: If you forgot to soak the beans overnight, use the quick soak method. Bring the beans to a boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and let them soak for 1 hour before cooking.
- Add Spice: For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Smoky Flavor: For a smoky twist, use smoked bacon or add a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
- Vegan Option: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of water for a flavorful vegan version.
- Beans Texture: If you like thicker beans, mash some with a potato masher or blend a cup of beans and stir them back into the pot.
Serving Suggestions
Pinto beans pair beautifully with many dishes, such as:
- Mexican Rice – for a complete Tex-Mex meal.
- Cornbread – a Southern classic that complements the savory beans.
- Tortillas – serve as a filling for burritos or tacos.
- Grilled Meats – such as grilled chicken, steak, or sausages.
- Toppings – like sour cream, shredded cheese, or fresh avocado slices.
These beans are incredibly versatile and can be served as a main dish, side dish, or even as a topping for nachos.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store leftover pinto beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Beans freeze well! Place them in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat: To reheat, simply warm the beans on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed. You can also microwave them in a microwave-safe bowl.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Canned Beans Instead of Dried?
Yes, you can use canned pinto beans for a quicker version. Simply skip the soaking step and reduce the cooking time to about 1 hour.
Do I Have to Soak the Beans Overnight?
Soaking the beans overnight helps to soften them and reduce cooking time, but it’s not mandatory. You can use the quick soak method or cook them longer if you skip the soaking.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! To make this in a slow cooker, combine all the ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the beans are tender.
Can I Add Meat Other Than Bacon?
Yes! You can add ham hocks, smoked sausage, or chorizo for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Make It Spicier?
For extra heat, add chopped jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or a dash of hot sauce.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
These Homemade Pinto Beans with Bacon are rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether served as a side dish or the main event, they bring warmth and comfort to any meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or potlucks, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
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