Mexican Pinto
A hearty Mexican pinto bean stew packed with smoky flavor from ham or fat back, spicy jalapeños, and savory V-8 juice, perfect for comforting meals and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a crock pot.
- Fill with water to cover the ingredients.
- Cook until the beans are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, soak the dried pintos overnight to reduce cooking time and enhance tenderness. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the fat back or ham bone with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar depth of flavor. Adjust the heat by varying the number of jalapenos or using milder peppers if desired. This dish pairs nicely with Brown Rice With Black Beans for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mexican Pinto as a hearty main dish or as a side. It pairs well with cornbread or Heart Smart Tortilla Chips for a crunchy contrast. Consider topping with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. This dish also complements a refreshing drink like Mexico Chiquito Punch to round out your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen the beans. You can also microwave them in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through. Freezing is another option, lasting up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Pinto contains roughly 113 calories, with 15g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (30% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1487mg per serving (65% 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 to save time. If using canned, reduce the cooking time significantly, as they only need to be heated through. Add them in the last 30 minutes of cooking along with the other ingredients to absorb the flavors without turning mushy.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the spice level, add more jalapeno peppers or include additional spicy ingredients like diced serrano peppers or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also experiment with different chili powders or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
What can I serve with Mexican Pinto?
Mexican Pinto is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Consider pairing it with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad. It also makes a great filling for burritos or tacos. For a complete meal, serve with Mexican Pepper Steak or a side of Anne'S Salsa for a burst of flavor.
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).