Experience the authentic taste of Mexico with this Frijoles Mexican Style Pinto Beans recipe, a hearty and flavorful dish that's both comforting and versatile. Made from tender, slow-simmered dried pinto beans infused with aromatic essentials like white onion, fresh garlic, and bay leaves, this recipe is elevated with the rich notes of cumin bloomed in lard (or vegetable oil for a vegetarian-friendly option). Finished with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and the optional heat of jalapeño, these Mexican-style beans shine as a satisfying side dish or a delicious base for tacos, burritos, and more. With minimal prep time and a focus on traditional cooking techniques, this dish is the perfect way to bring authentic Mexican flavors to your table.
Sort through the dried pinto beans to remove any debris or damaged beans. Rinse thoroughly under cool water.
In a large bowl, soak the beans in water overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse before cooking.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the soaked beans, 8 cups of water, halved onion, garlic cloves, and bay leaves.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover partially and cook 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 submerged.
Once the beans are cooked, remove the onion, garlic, and bay leaves from the pot. Stir in the salt.
In a small skillet, heat the lard (or vegetable oil) over medium heat. Add the ground cumin and let it bloom in the hot oil for about 30 seconds. Pour this mixture into the pot of beans and stir well.
Taste the beans and adjust the seasoning with more salt if necessary. If desired, add a whole jalapeño to the pot for extra flavor and mild heat.
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving. Serve warm as a side dish or as a base for other Mexican dishes.
Calories |
812 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 30.3 g | 39% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.2 g | 56% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 26 mg | 9% | |
| Sodium | 5625 mg | 245% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 106.0 g | 39% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 34.3 g | 122% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.3 g | ||
| Protein | 34.3 g | 69% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 347 mg | 27% | |
| Iron | 9.9 mg | 55% | |
| Potassium | 1800 mg | 38% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.