Jack'S Good Tastin' Pinto Beans And Ground Meat
Jack's Good Tastin' Pinto Beans and Ground Meat is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender pinto beans with flavorful ground meat and a medley of vegetables. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy gathering, this recipe offers a satisfying blend of savory and robust flavors that warms the soul.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain water from beans that soaked overnight.
- In a large saucepan, combine water, salt pork, salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil.
- Add beans, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, garlic and celery.
- Cook on medium heat, adding water as needed, until beans are tender.
- Beans are done when they smash with little pressure.
- Measure a cup of the liquid from the pot. Add flour to the liquid and mix well.
- Return this mixture to the pot and cook an additional 10 to 20 minutes.
- If desired, brown ground meat in skillet and add to beans.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked sausage or diced ham instead of salt pork. If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add more vegetables like corn or zucchini. Make sure to soak the pinto beans overnight for optimal cooking time, and adjust the seasoning gradually as the flavors meld during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jack's Pinto Beans alongside cornbread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. They also pair beautifully with Pork Chops or can be enjoyed as a hearty filling for burritos. For a comforting touch, top with shredded cheese or chopped cilantro before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if the beans seem dry. You can also reheat in the microwave, ensuring to cover the dish to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jack'S Good Tastin' Pinto Beans And Ground Meat contains roughly 180 calories, with 4g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1609mg per serving (70% 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 use canned pinto beans instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned pinto beans for a quicker preparation. If using canned, reduce the cooking time significantly; add them during the last 15 minutes of cooking to heat through and absorb flavors.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the bean mixture. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a spicier kick.
What can I serve with this dish?
Great pairings include a light salad or coleslaw for freshness. For a comforting meal, serve with Grated Corn Bread or over rice to soak up the delicious flavors.
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).