Ingredients

1 pound dried pinto beans , rinsed
1/2 pound bacon , cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 yellow onion , chopped
1 tablespoon chili powder , or to taste
1 tablespoon ground cumin , or to taste
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder , or to taste
1/2 bunch fresh cilantro , chopped
salt to taste
Pinto beans are a staple in Mexican cuisine and are used in many dishes such as burritos, chili, and refried beans. They have a creamy texture and a nutty flavor that pairs well with spicy seasonings. This recipe is a classic Mexican-inspired dish that uses pinto beans as the main ingredient. The dish is simple to make, but it requires soaking the beans overnight to reduce cooking time and increase digestibility. The bacon adds a smoky flavor, and the cilantro gives freshness to the dish. You can serve pinto beans as a standalone dish or as a side dish with rice or bread. It is a satisfying and healthy meal that will keep you full for a long time.

Instructions

1.Soak the rinsed pinto beans in water overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse.
2.In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3.Add the chopped onion to the bacon fat and sauté until it is soft and translucent.
4.Add the soaked pinto beans, chili powder, ground cumin, and garlic powder to the pot, and stir well.
5.Pour in enough water to cover the beans by about an inch. Bring to a simmer, cover with a lid, and cook for about 1-2 hours, or until beans are tender. If necessary, add more water during cooking to keep the beans submerged.
6.Stir in chopped cilantro, bacon, and salt to taste. Serve hot.

PROS

Pinto beans are a good source of protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates.
They can help reduce blood sugar levels, improve digestion, and aid weight loss.
Mexican-style seasonings give this dish a spicy and flavorful boost.
The recipe uses only a few simple ingredients, which makes it a budget-friendly option for a healthy meal.
Pinto beans can be stored in the freezer so that you can make this dish any time you want.

CONS

Although pinto beans have many health benefits, they can cause gastrointestinal discomfort if consumed in large amounts.
The dish is high in sodium due to the addition of salt and bacon.
It takes a long time to cook, so it requires patience and planning to prepare.
If you are not a fan of spicy food, you might want to reduce the amount of chili powder in the recipe.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Pinto beans are a nutrient-dense food that provides several vitamins and minerals such as iron, folate, magnesium, and potassium. They are a low glycemic index food, which means they do not cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. Pinto beans are also beneficial for heart health, as they can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce blood pressure. They are an excellent source of plant-based protein that can help you maintain muscle mass and support bone health.

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