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–+ servings
Sheila Browder

Crock Pot Pinto Beans

Before diving into the delicious world of Crock Pot pinto beans, let’s talk about some amazing pairings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 Cups
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt divided
  • 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion chopped into 1/4-inch dice
  • 1 jalapeno cored, seeded, and finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced, about 1 tablespoon
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 pound dry pinto beans
  • 2 cups water additional
  • ⅛ to 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
For serving:
  • Queso fresco or shredded Monterey jack cheese
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Diced red onion
  • Chopped fresh cilantro
  • Avocado optional

Equipment

  • Cup, Teaspoon

Method
 

Step 1: Rinse the Beans
  1. Start with rinsing the dry pinto beans under cold water using a colander. This step washes away any dirt or debris. It’s crucial for achieving the best flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
  1. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and jalapeno, sautéing until they soften, approximately 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, cooking for an additional minute.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot
  1. Transfer the sautéed mix into your Crock Pot. Add rinsed beans, broth, water, cumin, oregano, bay leaves, and salt. Stir to combine everything.
Step 4: Slow Cook
  1. Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or until beans are tender. Stir occasionally if possible. If you decided to include cayenne pepper, add it in the last hour of cooking to keep its flavor vibrant.
Step 5: Serve
  1. Once ready, remove the bay leaves. Dish up the beans into bowls. Top with your choice of queso fresco, diced tomatoes, red onion, and a sprinkle of cilantro. For added flavor, an avocado slice on top is just perfection.

Nutrition

Serving: 1CupCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 12gFat: 5gSodium: 400mgFiber: 10g

Notes

Here are some quick tips to ensure your Crock Pot pinto beans turn out perfectly:
Soaking Option
 You can soak the dry beans overnight in water if desired. It can help the cooking time and improve texture.
Adjusting Spice
 Want it spicier? Add more jalapenos or cayenne pepper. It’s all about what you enjoy.
Storing Leftovers
 These beans keep well. Store in an airtight container for up to a week in the fridge.
Freezing
 Make a bigger batch and freeze leftovers. Just ensure to use a freezer-safe container.
Extra Flavor
 You can boost flavor by adding a dash of smoked paprika or even a splash of vinegar before serving.

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