Jul 09 2026
RestaurantsCotham's In the CityPinto Beans Recipe

Pinto Beans Recipe

Time2h
Serves4

Make Pinto Beans Recipe in just 2h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Dried Pinto Beans and Flavor Base

Finish and Garnish

Method

Rinse and prep (soak optional)

  1. 1

    Rinse beans

    Rinse the dried pinto beans under cold running water and pick out any debris.

  2. 2

    Optional soak

    If you have time, soak beans overnight in plenty of water to soften them and reduce cooking time. Drain before cooking. If you skip soaking, proceed to the next step.

Aromatics and spices

  1. 3

    Sauté aromatics

    In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.

  2. 4

    Bloom spices

    Add ground cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Cook beans

  1. 5

    Add beans and bay leaf

    Add the rinsed (and soaked, if applicable) beans to the pot along with the bay leaf. Add enough water to cover beans by about 1-2 inches (roughly 4-6 cups depending on pot size).

  2. 6

    Simmer beans

    Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cover partially and cook until beans are tender, about 60-75 minutes if soaked; longer if unsoaked. Stir occasionally and add more water as needed to keep beans submerged.

Finish and serve

  1. 7

    Season

    Season with salt and pepper to taste toward the end of cooking.

  2. 8

    Garnish and brighten

    Remove the bay leaf. Stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice. Adjust seasoning as needed.

  3. 9

    Serve

    Serve the pinto beans hot as a side dish, over rice, or as a component in bowls. Optional toppings: avocado, cheese, salsa, or hot sauce.

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