Sure, here’s a simple recipe for cooking pinto beans:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups dried pinto beans
- 6 cups water (for soaking)
- 6 cups water (for cooking)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeno pepper, diced (optional)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Soak the beans: Rinse the dried pinto beans under cold water to remove any debris. Then, place them in a large bowl and cover with about 6 cups of water. Let the beans soak overnight or for at least 6-8 hours.
- Cook the beans: After soaking, drain and rinse the beans again. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sautΓ© until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and jalapeno pepper (if using) and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the beans and seasonings: Add the soaked and rinsed pinto beans to the pot. Pour in 6 cups of water. Add salt, black pepper, cumin, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer uncovered for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed to keep the beans covered.
- Serve: Once the beans are tender, remove the bay leaf and taste for seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed. Serve the pinto beans hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Enjoy your homemade pinto beans! They’re delicious on their own, as a side dish, or as a filling for tacos, burritos, or salads.
