Are you craving a comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy meal? Look no further! This recipe for pinto beans with bacon is a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. It's a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can create a truly memorable homemade meal. This recipe delivers big on taste without requiring hours in the kitchen, making it a winner for busy cooks looking for quick dinner ideas. Get ready to enjoy this healthy and delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pinto beans, rinsed and picked over
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Cook the Bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the pot with the bacon grease. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the rinsed pinto beans, diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper to the pot.
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Simmer the Beans: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Add more broth if needed to maintain a desirable consistency.
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Finish and Serve: Once the beans are cooked through, stir in the crispy bacon. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pinto Beans:
- Soaking the beans: For even quicker cooking, consider soaking the pinto beans overnight in cold water. This significantly reduces cooking time.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked beans can become mushy. Check for tenderness frequently towards the end of the cooking time.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. For a milder dish, omit it altogether. Other spices like smoked paprika or oregano would also add a delicious depth of flavor.
- Add some heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
Variations:
- Add some protein: Include cooked chorizo or shredded chicken for extra protein.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and omit the bacon.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like carrots, corn, or zucchini.
- Creamy beans: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving for a creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Fiber: 10-15g
This easy recipe for pinto beans with bacon is a hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. It’s a delicious, healthy, and budget-friendly choice that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!