Ruth'S Lake Texoma Beans
A hearty Texoma-style bean and ground beef stew with tomatoes, onions, and bold chili flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in a little oil until translucent.
- Brown the lean ground beef in a skillet.
- Mix all the ingredients except the soaked beans in a bowl.
- Place soaked pinto beans in a crock-pot.
- Cover the beans with water in the crock-pot.
- Add the meat mixture to the crock-pot and stir well.
- Turn the crock-pot on high.
- Cook for about 6 hours, or until the beans are tender and flavors meld.
- Serve hot with cornbread for a complete meal.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or a diced jalapeño to the crock-pot. If you're short on time, canned pinto beans can be used; just reduce the cooking time significantly. You can also substitute the lean ground beef with turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Texoma Beans hot with a side of cornbread for a comforting meal. A simple green salad or coleslaw pairs well to balance the richness. For a twist, top the beans with shredded cheese or avocado before serving for added creaminess and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ruth'S Lake Texoma Beans contains roughly 125 calories, with 3g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2048mg per serving (89% 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 dried beans without soaking them overnight?
Yes, you can use dried beans without soaking, but it will increase the cooking time significantly, potentially requiring 8-10 hours in the crock-pot. Alternatively, use the quick-soak method by boiling the beans for 2 minutes and then letting them sit for an hour before proceeding with the recipe.
What can I do if the beans are still hard after cooking?
If the beans are still hard after the recommended cooking time, continue to cook them on high for an additional hour. Check periodically, adding more water if needed to prevent sticking. Their doneness can vary based on age and type of bean used.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and add extra vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. You could also incorporate some cooked quinoa or lentils for additional protein and texture, ensuring it remains a hearty meal.
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).