Beans And Meat
A hearty and flavorful beans and meat dish featuring tender pinto beans and seasoned ground meat, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook pinto beans in soda water and change the water.
- Cook ground meat with chili powder and onion powder until the meat is cooked through.
- Combine all ingredients and cook at low temperature until flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the ground meat with minced garlic or adding diced bell peppers. If pinto beans aren't available, black beans can be a great substitute. You can also adjust the level of spice by increasing or decreasing the chili powder. To save time, use canned beans instead of dried, but reduce cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beans and meat with warm tortillas or over rice for a hearty meal. It pairs perfectly with homemade Black Bean 'N Olive Salsa for added freshness. Consider a side of cornbread or a simple green salad to round out the meal. Top with shredded cheese or avocado for extra creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beans And Meat contains roughly 1183 calories, with 69g protein, 231g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (208% of the Daily Value), protein (137% of the Daily Value), and iron (134% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 724mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Soak the pinto beans overnight, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker, setting it on low for 6-8 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a delicious, hearty dish.
What can I use instead of ground meat?
If you're looking for a meatless option, consider using textured vegetable protein (TVP) or lentils as a substitute for ground meat. Both options will absorb the flavors of the spices well and offer a satisfying texture. This makes it a great option for those following vegan recipes.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper during cooking. You might also consider using a spicier chili powder blend or serving with a hot sauce on the side. Just remember to adjust to your taste preference!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).