Watergate Beans
A hearty, smoky bean stew brimming with cumin, chili, and tender ground round—perfect for a comforting family dinner or a satisfying lunch that warms the soul.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the ground round and chopped onion in a large skillet until browned.
- Drain the excess fat from the skillet.
- Add the cooked pinto beans, canned tomatoes, enchilada sauce, green chili peppers, cumin, and chili powder to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot with cornbread on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or a splash of lime juice. If you don't have pinto beans, black beans or kidney beans can be used as a substitute. Adjust the chili powder based on your heat preference; you can also add jalapeños for extra spice. Fresh cilantro can enhance the dish's flavor profile as a garnish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect served hot with cornbread on the side, which complements its flavors beautifully. You can also serve it over rice for a heartier meal or alongside a fresh salad. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the ground round and adjust the spices accordingly, making it suitable for vegan recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking. You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Watergate Beans contains roughly 328 calories, with 28g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (86% of the Daily Value), protein (57% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 997mg per serving (43% 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 instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried pinto beans. Soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the recipe. This may add extra cooking time, so plan accordingly. Canned beans save time and are a great option for quick preparation.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of chili powder or add fresh chopped jalapeños. You can also use hot enchilada sauce instead of mild. For a unique twist, consider incorporating diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky and spicy flavor.
What can I serve with Watergate Beans?
Besides cornbread, consider serving it with tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese can also enhance the dish. For a complete meal, serve it with a side of Baked Rice And Meat for a hearty combination.
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).