Goldwater Beans
Goldwater Beans feature hearty pinto beans with savory ground beef, bold spices, and smoky chili flavors, perfect for comfort food lovers and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the pinto beans overnight.
- Cook the soaked beans until tender, about 2 hours.
- Brown the ground beef in bacon fat.
- Add the cooked meat to the beans.
- Stir in all other ingredients including salt, black pepper, chopped onion, cumin, oregano, garlic or garlic powder, chili powder, green chili peppers, and taco sauce.
- Cook until flavors blend and the dish is heated through.
- Serve with cornbread pancakes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon fat or adding a dash of liquid smoke. If you're short on time, canned pinto beans can be substituted, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. To enhance the spice, add more chili powder or a dash of hot sauce. This recipe also works well with other beans like black or kidney beans, making it versatile within the realm of Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Goldwater Beans alongside cornbread pancakes for a delightful meal. You can also pair them with rice or serve them as a filling for burritos or tacos. A fresh salad or guacamole on the side will complement the dish beautifully. For a heartier option, consider serving with Mexican Fireballs for a satisfying feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the beans in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through. They can also be reheated in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Goldwater Beans contains roughly 823 calories, with 45g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (99% of the Daily Value), and protein (89% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1132mg per serving (49% 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 dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or simply omit it entirely. Increase the amount of beans and add additional vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to maintain a hearty texture and flavor in your Goldwater Beans.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, simply modify the amount of chili powder or include milder peppers, like bell peppers, instead of green chili peppers. Additionally, you can serve the dish with sour cream or avocado to balance the heat if it becomes too spicy.
Can I freeze Goldwater Beans?
Yes, Goldwater Beans freeze well! Allow them to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
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).