Savory Southern Pinto Beans
This savory Southern Pinto Beans recipe has been a beloved part of my family's meal rotation for years. After testing countless variations, we've settled on this flavorful concoction that strikes the perfect balance between richness and comfort. With the option to use dried or canned beans, it's adaptable for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend meals. The smoky notes from the bacon combined with aromatic spices create a delicious dish that pairs wonderfully with cornbread or rice. My family always requests this dish, and I'm sure it will become a favorite at your table too. Enjoy every hearty bite!
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Dried pinto beans
1 lb (rinsed and sorted)
Bacon or salt pork
4 slices (chopped)
Salt
to taste (none)
Pepper
to taste (none)
Garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Water
2 quarts (none)
Onion powder
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
Begin by rinsing the dried pinto beans thoroughly in cold water, sorting through them to remove any debris or damaged beans.
2
Transfer the cleaned beans into a large pot and add 2 quarts of fresh water.
3
Bring the pot to a rapid boil over high heat, then reduce to medium heat and let the beans cook for about 1 hour, checking occasionally.
4
As the beans cook, monitor the water level and add nearly boiling hot tap water as needed to keep the beans submerged.
5
After an hour, add the chopped bacon or salt pork to the pot and continue to cook for an additional 45 minutes.
6
Once the beans are tender, stir in garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
7
Reduce the heat to low, allowing the mixture to simmer gently for another 20 to 25 minutes to enhance the flavors.
8
Once finished, serve warm and savor the delightful taste of homemade Southern pinto beans.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Southern Pinto Beans?
Savory Southern Pinto Beans are a flavorful and hearty comfort food dish featuring dried pinto beans, smoky bacon, and aromatic spices.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 8 servings.
What is the primary ingredient for this recipe?
The main ingredient is 1 pound of dried pinto beans.
Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes, while the instructions focus on dried beans, the recipe is adaptable for canned beans to accommodate busy weeknights.
What type of meat is recommended for seasoning?
The recipe calls for 4 slices of chopped bacon or salt pork to provide smoky notes and richness.
How much water do I need to start the beans?
You should begin by adding 2 quarts of fresh water to the pot with your cleaned beans.
Is it necessary to rinse the beans?
Yes, you should rinse the dried pinto beans thoroughly in cold water before starting the cooking process.
Why do the beans need to be sorted?
Sorting allows you to remove any debris or damaged beans that might be mixed in with the dried beans.
How long do the beans boil initially?
The beans should be brought to a rapid boil and then cooked for about 1 hour over medium heat.
Should I add water while the beans are cooking?
Yes, you should monitor the water level and add nearly boiling hot tap water as needed to keep the beans submerged.
When should I add the bacon or salt pork?
The chopped bacon or salt pork should be added to the pot after the beans have cooked for their first hour.
How much garlic powder is used in the recipe?
The recipe requires 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
How much onion powder should I include?
You should add 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder to the mixture.
Is this pinto bean recipe spicy?
It has a mild kick from 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, though you can adjust seasonings to your liking.
How long do the beans cook after adding the meat?
After adding the bacon or salt pork, continue to cook the beans for an additional 45 minutes.
At what point are the spices added?
The garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper are stirred in once the beans have become tender.
How long is the final simmering period?
Once the spices are added, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for another 20 to 25 minutes.
What is the best way to serve Southern pinto beans?
These beans pair wonderfully with a side of cornbread or served over a bed of rice.
Is this a traditional family recipe?
Yes, it is a beloved family recipe that has been tested and refined over many years.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes, a vegetarian version can be made by omitting the bacon or salt pork.
What category of food does this recipe fall into?
This recipe is categorized under Beans and is considered a Southern cooking staple.
Does this recipe require soaking the beans overnight?
The instructions provided follow a rapid boil and cook method rather than an overnight soak.
How much cayenne pepper is in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
What heat level is used for the final simmer?
The final simmer should be done on low heat to allow the flavors to enhance properly.
What does the bacon add to the dish?
The bacon provides smoky notes and a savory richness that balances the beans.
Is there a specific way to season with salt and pepper?
Salt and pepper should be added 'to taste' once the beans are tender.
How would you describe the texture of this dish?
It is a hearty and comforting dish with tender beans and a rich, flavorful broth.
Can I use salt pork if I don't have bacon?
Yes, salt pork is an excellent alternative to bacon for this recipe.
What type of water should be used to top off the pot?
It is recommended to use nearly boiling hot tap water to maintain the cooking temperature of the beans.
What is the total estimated cooking time for the dried beans?
The total cooking and simmering time is approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes after the initial boil.