Bacon-Simmered Pinto Beans Recipe

Step by Step Method

Step 1

Place beans in a large pot. Add enough water to cover by 4". Let soak overnight. Drain beans.

Step 2

Heat 1 tablespoons oil in same large heavy pot over medium heat. Add bacon to pot and cook until crisp, stirring occasionally. Using a slotted spoon, transfer bacon to paper towels to drain. Pour off all but 2 tablespoons drippings from pot. Add onion, garlic, and 1 minced jalapeño and cook, stirring often, until soft, about 10 minutes.

Step 3

Add drained beans to pot. Pour in enough water to cover beans by 2" (about 8 cups). Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer, stirring occasionally and adding more water by 1/2-cupfuls if dry, until beans are tender, about 2 hours. Stir in remaining jalapeño and reserved bacon. Season to taste with salt.

Step 4

Step 5

DO AHEAD Can be made 2 days ahead. Let cool slightly. Chill uncovered until cold, then cover and keep chilled. Rewarm before serving, adding additional water as needed if dry.

Step 6

Transfer beans to a large bowl. Sprinkle with cheese and cilantro and serve with pickled onions.

Step 7

Step 8

INSTANTPOT:

Step 9

Place beans in a large pot. Add enough water to cover by 4". Let soak overnight. Drain beans.

Step 10

Heat 1 tablespoons oil in the Instant Pot insert by selecting saute. Add bacon to pot and cook until crisp, stirring occasionally. Using a slotted spoon, transfer bacon to paper towels to drain. Pour off all but 2 tablespoons drippings from pot. Add onion, garlic, and 1 minced jalapeño and cook, stirring often, until soft, about 10 minutes.

Step 11

Add drained beans to the Instant Pot insert. Pour in about 4-5 cups of water. Give it a stir to combine ingredients. Lock the lid and seal the vent. Select MANUAL (make sure it is set for high) and cook for 25 minutes.

Step 12

After 25 minutes of pressure cooking use the natural release method.

Step 13

Only after the natural release is completely finished, remove lid. Stir in remaining jalapeño and reserved bacon. Season to taste with salt and garnish.

Tips

No special items needed.

Editorial Notes

The ingredient tips, suggestions, variations, facts, questions and answers below are not edits to the original author's recipe. They are not meant to imply any change would improve the recipe. They're offered for convenience, alternative ideas, and points of interest. If you have any comments about them, please post in the Help & Ideas forum.

Tips for selecting ingredients

To ensure the best flavor, use thick-cut bacon slices.
If you cannot find Cotija cheese, you can substitute with a mild feta cheese.

Ingredient substitutions

Instead of bacon, use smoked turkey for a healthier option. The smoked turkey will provide the same smoky flavor as bacon and will also provide leaner protein.
Instead of jalapenos, use bell peppers for a milder flavor. The bell peppers will provide a mild sweetness and crunch, while still adding color and texture to the dish.

Variations

Vegan Variation Omit the bacon and replace the oil with vegan butter or margarine. Use vegetable broth instead of water. Add in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder to the onion, garlic and jalapeno mixture. Use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast as a garnish.

Serve with

Mexican Rice - This classic Mexican dish is the perfect accompaniment to the Bacon-Simmered Pinto Beans. The fluffy, subtly spiced rice is a great way to add texture to the dish and is a great way to soak up all the delicious flavors of the beans.

Guacamole: Guacamole is a great addition to this Mexican-inspired meal. The creamy, flavorful dip pairs perfectly with the rice and beans and adds a refreshing touch to the dish. Plus, it's a great source of healthy fats and antioxidants!