Experience the bold, comforting flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine with this hearty Mexican Flavor Beans recipe! Made with tender pinto beans simmered to perfection in a savory blend of aromatic spices like cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika, this dish is infused with vibrant ingredients such as diced tomatoes, minced jalapeño, and fresh cilantro. A splash of lime at the end adds a zesty finish that ties together the rich, smoky, and slightly spicy notes. Perfect as a standout side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main, these beans are cooked low and slow in chicken or vegetable broth to create a creamy, flavorful base. Whether you’re serving them alongside tacos or spooning them over rice, this recipe is simple to prepare yet packed with traditional Mexican-inspired goodness. Great for batch cooking, full of protein, and naturally gluten-free, it’s an excellent addition to any meal plan!
Rinse and sort the pinto beans, removing any debris or damaged beans.
Place the beans in a bowl and cover with water. Soak them overnight, or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse before cooking.
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and jalapeño, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the diced tomatoes, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the drained beans. Bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. Add more broth or water if the beans begin to dry out.
Test the beans for doneness. They should be soft and creamy. Adjust salt and seasonings to taste.
Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro.
Serve warm with fresh lime wedges for squeezing over the beans.
Calories |
980 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 34.4 g | 44% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.5 g | 28% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 7153 mg | 311% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 132.4 g | 48% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 44.9 g | 160% | |
| Total Sugars | 18.9 g | ||
| Protein | 44.4 g | 89% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 418 mg | 32% | |
| Iron | 13.8 mg | 77% | |
| Potassium | 2847 mg | 61% | |
*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.