Are you craving a delicious and authentic Mexican dish? Look no further than canned pinto beans! These versatile legumes are a staple in Mexican cuisine and can be used in a variety of dishes, from burritos to soups and stews. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of cooking canned pinto beans Mexican style, so you can enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

To cook canned pinto beans Mexican style, you will need a few key ingredients. First and foremost, you will need a can or cans of pinto beans. Look for cans that are labeled “Mexican style” or “seasoned” for added flavor. Additionally, gather some onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, dried oregano, and salt. These spices will help to enhance the flavor of the beans and give them that distinctive Mexican taste.

Step 2: Prepare Your Beans

Start by draining and rinsing the canned pinto beans. This will remove any excess salt or preservatives that may be present. Set the beans aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. These aromatic vegetables will add depth and flavor to your dish.

Step 3: Cooking the Beans

In a large saucepan or skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This will release the flavors of the garlic.

Pro Tip: For an extra kick of heat, you can also add some diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the pan.

Once the onion and garlic are cooked, add the drained and rinsed pinto beans to the pan. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to ensure that the beans are evenly coated with the spices. Reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

After simmering, your canned pinto beans Mexican style are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them as a side dish to your favorite Mexican entrees, such as tacos, enchiladas, or quesadillas. You can also serve them as a main dish over rice or with tortillas. Top your beans with some fresh cilantro, chopped onions, or grated cheese for added flavor and visual appeal.

Now that you know how to cook canned pinto beans Mexican style, you can bring the flavors of Mexico into your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a weeknight dinner, these beans are sure to impress. So put on your apron and get ready to experience the delicious taste of Mexican cuisine!

Preparing Canned Pinto Beans

When it comes to cooking delicious and hearty Mexican-style pinto beans, using canned beans is a convenient and time-saving option. Canned pinto beans are pre-cooked and packed with flavor, making them the perfect base for a variety of dishes. Here are a few simple steps to prepare canned pinto beans that will taste just like they were made from scratch.

Ingredients:

  • 1 can of pinto beans
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
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Instructions:

Step 1: Start by draining and rinsing the canned pinto beans. This will help remove any excess salt and enhance their flavor.

Step 2: In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, then sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Stir in the cumin and chili powder, cooking for an additional minute to release their flavors.

Step 4: Add the drained pinto beans to the saucepan, stirring well to coat them with the onion and garlic mixture. Reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep in mind that canned beans usually contain some salt, so be sure to taste before adding more.

Step 6: Once the beans are heated through and seasoned to your liking, they are ready to serve. These delicious pinto beans can be enjoyed as a side dish, added to tacos or burritos, or used as a filling for bean dip.

Note: If you prefer a creamier texture, you can use a potato masher or blender to partially mash the pinto beans before serving.

With these simple steps, you can easily transform a can of pinto beans into a flavorful and authentic Mexican dish. Enjoy the taste of homemade pinto beans without all the time and effort!

Step-by-step guide to cooking canned pinto beans Mexican style

Beans are a staple in Mexican cuisine, and cooking them from scratch can take time. But if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy the deliciousness of Mexican pinto beans, canned beans are the way to go. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cooking canned pinto beans in the traditional Mexican style.

Ingredients:

  • 1 can of pinto beans
  • 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon of chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 2: Add the minced garlic and chopped jalapeño pepper (if using) to the skillet. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Step 3: Drain and rinse the canned pinto beans in a colander. Add the beans to the skillet and stir well to combine them with the onion, garlic, and jalapeño mixture.

Step 4: Season the beans with ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir the spices into the beans until they are evenly coated.

Step 5: Reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.

Step 6: If the beans start to dry out, you can add a little bit of water or vegetable broth to keep them moist. Just make sure not to add too much liquid, as you want the beans to have a thick and creamy consistency.

Step 7: After simmering for 15-20 minutes, taste the beans and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices according to your taste.

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Step 8: Once the beans are fully heated and well-seasoned, they are ready to serve. You can enjoy them as a side dish, or use them in a variety of Mexican recipes like tacos, burritos, or enchiladas.

There you have it – a simple and delicious way to cook canned pinto beans Mexican style. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can enjoy the flavors of Mexico right in your own kitchen.

Canned pinto beans: nutritional benefits

Pinto beans, a popular ingredient in Mexican cuisine, are not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Canned pinto beans offer a convenient and quick way to enjoy these nutritious legumes. Here are some of the nutritional benefits of canned pinto beans:

1. Protein: Canned pinto beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein. Just 1 cup (171 grams) of canned pinto beans contains approximately 15 grams of protein, making them a great option for vegetarians and vegans.

2. Fiber: Pinto beans are high in dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health. One cup of canned pinto beans provides around 15 grams of fiber, helping to promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.

3. B vitamins: Canned pinto beans are rich in several B vitamins, including folate, thiamine, and niacin. These vitamins play a crucial role in energy production, brain health, and the formation of red blood cells.

4. Minerals: Canned pinto beans are a good source of minerals such as iron, magnesium, and potassium. Iron is essential for transporting oxygen throughout the body, magnesium is important for bone health, and potassium helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels.

5. Low in fat: Canned pinto beans are low in fat, making them a healthy choice for those watching their fat intake. They are also cholesterol-free, which is beneficial for heart health.

Overall, canned pinto beans are a nutritious and versatile ingredient to incorporate into your meals. They can be enjoyed in Mexican dishes like burritos, tacos, and chili, or added to salads, soups, and stews for added flavor and nutrition.

Disclaimer: It’s important to note that canned pinto beans may contain added sodium, so it’s advisable to look for low-sodium options or rinse them thoroughly before use if you are watching your sodium intake.

Popular Mexican dishes with canned pinto beans

When it comes to Mexican cuisine, pinto beans are a staple ingredient that can be found in a variety of dishes. These versatile beans are a great source of protein and are commonly used in many traditional Mexican recipes. Canned pinto beans are a convenient option that can be easily incorporated into your favorite Mexican dishes. Here are some popular Mexican recipes that feature canned pinto beans:

Dish Description
Tacos de Frijoles These delicious bean tacos are made with warm tortillas, seasoned canned pinto beans, and various toppings such as salsa, guacamole, and cheese. They are a simple yet flavorful option that is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Chiles Rellenos This classic Mexican dish features roasted poblano peppers stuffed with a mixture of canned pinto beans, cheese, and spices. The stuffed peppers are then dipped in beaten egg, fried until golden, and served with a flavorful tomato sauce.
Enchiladas de Frijoles Enchiladas filled with mashed or whole canned pinto beans are a popular vegetarian option. The beans are combined with spices and rolled in corn tortillas. They are then topped with enchilada sauce, cheese, and baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Frijoles Charros This hearty bean soup is made with canned pinto beans, bacon, onions, tomatoes, and various spices. It is often served with a side of rice, tortillas, and garnished with fresh cilantro and lime juice. Frijoles Charros is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for cooler weather.
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These are just a few examples of the many delicious Mexican dishes that can be made using canned pinto beans. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking for a nutritious and flavorful ingredient to add to your meals, canned pinto beans are a versatile option that can easily be incorporated into your favorite Mexican recipes.

Q&A

What is the best way to cook canned pinto beans in Mexican style?

The best way to cook canned pinto beans in Mexican style is to start by frying some diced onions and minced garlic in a pan with a little bit of oil. Then, add the canned pinto beans (drained and rinsed) to the pan along with some chopped tomatoes, jalapenos, and traditional Mexican spices like cumin, chili powder, and oregano. Let the beans simmer for about 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve the cooked pinto beans with warm tortillas or rice for a delicious Mexican-style meal.

Can I use dried pinto beans instead of canned ones?

Yes, you can definitely use dried pinto beans instead of canned ones. However, using dried beans will require some extra steps. Firstly, you will need to soak the dried beans overnight in water to soften them. Then, drain and rinse the beans before cooking. Follow the same cooking instructions as for the canned pinto beans, but keep in mind that the cooking time for dried beans will be longer (around 1-2 hours) to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.

What are some traditional Mexican spices that go well with pinto beans?

Some traditional Mexican spices that go well with pinto beans include cumin, chili powder, oregano, and paprika. These spices add depth and a slightly spicy flavor to the beans. You can adjust the amounts of these spices based on your personal preference for heat and taste.

Can I add other ingredients like meat or vegetables to the canned pinto beans?

Yes, you can definitely add other ingredients like meat or vegetables to the canned pinto beans to make it a heartier dish. For a meaty version, you can add cooked and shredded chicken, ground beef, or diced bacon to the beans. For a vegetarian option, you can add sautéed bell peppers, corn kernels, or diced zucchini. These additions will amp up the flavor and provide additional texture to the dish.

How long can I store the cooked pinto beans in the refrigerator?

You can store the cooked pinto beans in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. Make sure to let the beans cool down completely before transferring them to the fridge. When reheating, you can do so on the stovetop or in the microwave until they are heated through. However, note that the texture of the beans may become slightly softer after being refrigerated.