Pinto Chili
A hearty and flavorful pinto chili with smoky spices, vegetables, and optional meat, perfect for cozy gatherings and satisfying comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sort the pinto beans and wash them.
- Put the beans in a large pan of cold water.
- Add the salt jowl, small onion, small bell pepper, and taco mix to the pan.
- Put a lid on the pan and bring to a boil.
- Lower the heat and simmer for 2 1/2 hours.
- Add the can of Wolfe Brand chili and/or ground beef or chuck to the pan.
- Let it simmer for another 30 minutes to an hour.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider soaking the pinto beans overnight for a smoother texture. If you don't have salt jowl, you can substitute with bacon or smoked sausage for a similar smoky taste. For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add extra vegetables or a can of diced tomatoes to boost the flavor. This dish can also be adjusted for spice by adding jalapeños or chili powder.
Serving Suggestions
Pinto Chili is delicious served with cornbread or over baked potatoes. Top with shredded cheese, diced avocados, or sour cream for added richness. It pairs beautifully with Duchess Meat Loaf Pie for a comforting meal experience. Consider serving with a side salad or tortilla chips for added crunch and contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Pinto Chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in individual portions, adding a splash of water if it seems too thick. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pinto Chili contains roughly 196 calories, with 8g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), iron (10% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (10% 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?
Absolutely! You can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by combining all ingredients in the slow cooker after soaking and rinsing the pinto beans. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding the Wolfe Brand chili during the last hour of cooking to warm through and blend 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).