Pinto beans are a staple in southern cuisine, and for good reason. They are hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Whether you're looking for a side dish to accompany your main course or a vegetarian main dish, these 20 recipes for southern pinto beans have got you covered. From classic, no-fuss recipes to more unique and creative twists, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
2of 20
Southern Pinto Beans and Hamhocks Made in the Crock Pot
Main Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Ham Hock, Yellow Onion, Minced Garlic
If you're short on time but still want to enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal, this recipe for southern pinto beans and hamhocks made in the crock pot is the perfect solution. Simply throw all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work for you. The result? Tender, flavorful beans with melt-in-your-mouth hamhocks that will have your tastebuds dancing.
3of 20
Southern Style Pinto Beans
Main Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Smoked Ham Hock, Water, Salt, Pepper
This recipe for southern style pinto beans is a tried-and-true classic. It's simple, yet packed with flavor thanks to the addition of bacon, onions, and a few secret ingredients. Serve it as a side dish or add some diced ham to make it a hearty main course. Either way, you won't be disappointed with the delicious, comforting flavors of these southern beans.
4of 20
The BEST Southern Pinto Beans
Main Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Chicken Stock, Water, Onion, Smoked Ham
Looking for the ultimate southern pinto beans recipe? Look no further. This recipe truly lives up to its name as the BEST southern pinto beans. The secret to its incredible flavor? A slow cook in a cast iron Dutch oven, which allows the flavors to develop and intensify. Trust us, once you try this recipe, you'll never go back to any other.
5of 20
Smoky Southern Baked Beans
Main Ingredients: Ghee, Ground Beef, Medium Onion, Green Bell Pepper
Baked beans are a classic southern side dish, but this recipe takes them to the next level with the addition of smoked sausage. The smoky, savory flavors of the sausage pair perfectly with the sweet and tangy baked beans. Serve them at your next barbecue or potluck and watch them disappear in no time.
This recipe for southern beans is so simple, yet so delicious. With just a few basic ingredients, you can have a flavorful and satisfying dish in no time. The key is to let the beans simmer on the stove for a few hours, allowing the flavors to blend and develop. Serve them with a side of cornbread for the ultimate southern meal.
7of 20
Southern Crock Pot Pinto Beans With Ham Hocks
Main Ingredients: Dried Pinto Beans, Smoked Ham Hock, Bay Leaves, Crushed
If you love the flavor of ham hocks in your pinto beans but don't have the time to tend to them on the stove, this recipe for southern crock pot pinto beans with ham hocks is for you. The slow cooker does all the work for you, resulting in tender, flavorful beans that are perfect for any occasion.
Ham and beans is a classic southern comfort food dish, and this recipe for southern ham and brown beans is no exception. The addition of brown sugar gives these beans a slight sweetness, which balances perfectly with the smoky, salty flavors of the ham. Serve it with a side of cornbread for a truly satisfying meal.
9of 20
Classic Southern Pinto Beans
Main Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Salt Pork, Medium Onion, Cayenne Pepper
This recipe for classic southern pinto beans is a must-try for anyone looking to experience true southern cuisine. With a few simple ingredients and a slow cook on the stove, you'll have a dish that's full of flavor and sure to please. Serve it up with your favorite southern sides for a complete meal.
10of 20
Southern Cornbread Salad
Main Ingredients: Ranch, Sour Cream, Mayonnaise, Cornbread, Pinto Beans
If you're looking for a unique and delicious way to enjoy your southern pinto beans, this recipe for southern cornbread salad is a must-try. It combines the flavors of cornbread, beans, and a tangy dressing for a dish that's both refreshing and satisfying. Serve it as a side dish or add some protein to make it a main course.
11of 20
Crockpot Ham and Beans - A Southern comfort food staple
Main Ingredients: Ham Bone, Pinto Beans, Onion, Beans, Water, Salt, Pepper
There's nothing quite like coming home to the comforting aroma of ham and beans cooking in the crockpot. This recipe for crockpot ham and beans is a southern staple that's perfect for those busy days when you still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal. It's simple, delicious, and sure to become a family favorite.
If you're looking for a little bit of a twist on traditional southern pinto beans, this recipe for Mexican pinto beans is the perfect choice. The addition of spices and veggies gives these beans a south-of-the-border flair that's sure to be a hit. Serve them over rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
13of 20
Texas Pinto Beans
Main Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Smoked Ham Hock, Onion, Garlic Powder
Texans know their beans, and this recipe for Texas pinto beans is no exception. The addition of jalapenos and bacon gives these beans a spicy kick that's sure to wake up your taste buds. Serve them as a side dish or add some diced chicken for a hearty and flavorful main course.
14of 20
Bourbon Peach BBQ Baked Beans.
Main Ingredients: Thick Cut Bacon, Cannellini Beans, Pinto Beans
Looking for a little bit of sweet and savory in your pinto beans? Look no further than this recipe for bourbon peach BBQ baked beans. The combination of smoky bacon, sweet peaches, and tangy BBQ sauce makes for a dish that's bursting with flavor. Serve it at your next barbecue and watch your guests go back for seconds.
15of 20
The Secret to Perfect Old Fashioned Pinto Beans
Main Ingredients: Pinto Bean, Olive Oil, Small Yellow Onion, Garlic
For those who love their beans simple and classic, this recipe for old fashioned pinto beans is the one for you. The secret to getting these beans just right is to cook them low and slow, allowing the flavors to fully develop. Serve them with a side of cornbread for a satisfying and comforting meal.
16of 20
Southern Style Beans & Bacon
Main Ingredients: Dried Pinto Beans, Bacon, Yellow Onion, Chicken Stock
Bacon lovers, this one's for you. This recipe for southern style beans and bacon combines two beloved southern ingredients for a dish that's full of flavor and sure to please. The addition of brown sugar gives these beans a slight sweetness that perfectly balances with the salty, smoky bacon.
17of 20
Chipotle Chili with Jalapeño Cornbread
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Ground Meat, Yellow Onion
For those who like a little bit of heat in their dishes, this recipe for chipotle chili with jalapeño cornbread is a must-try. The chipotle peppers give this chili a smoky and spicy kick, while the jalapeño cornbread adds the perfect amount of heat. Serve it up on a chilly day for a comforting and satisfying meal.
18of 20
Slow Cooker Pinto Bean Stew With Corn Bread Dumplings
Main Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Onion, Red Pepper, Celery, Frozen Whole
Looking for a hearty and filling meal that's easy to make? This recipe for slow cooker pinto bean stew with corn bread dumplings is the answer. The beans and veggies cook together in the slow cooker, while the corn bread dumplings are added in at the end for a delicious and unique twist on traditional pinto beans.
19of 20
Pinto Bean Cakes
Main Ingredients: Butter, Red Bell Pepper, Green Onions, Pinto Beans
If you're looking for a vegetarian main dish that's full of flavor and protein, these pinto bean cakes are the way to go. They are simple to make and can be easily customized with your favorite herbs and spices. Serve them with a side of rice and veggies for a complete and satisfying meal.
20of 20
The Best Texas Caviar
Main Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Black Eyed Peas, White Shoepeg Corn, Sweet
This recipe for the best Texas caviar is a perfect side dish or appetizer to accompany your southern pinto beans. The combination of beans, corn, peppers, and herbs makes for a dish that's full of flavor and texture. Serve it with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled meats for a delicious and refreshing meal.
The History of Pinto Beans
Origins and Popularity
Pinto beans have been a staple in Southern cuisine for centuries, with their origins dating back to the Aztecs in Mexico. These small, speckled beans are versatile, affordable, and packed with nutrients, making them a popular choice amongst many cultures. In the Southern United States, pinto beans have become a beloved ingredient in various dishes, including the well-known Bush's Southern Pinto Beans Recipe.
Health Benefits
Aside from their delicious taste, pinto beans also offer numerous health benefits. They are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making them a perfect addition to any diet. Pinto beans are also low in fat and calories, making them a healthier option compared to other protein sources. The high fiber content in pinto beans can also aid in digestion and promote a healthy gut.
The Perfect Recipe for Bush's Southern Pinto Beans
Ingredients
To make Bush's Southern Pinto Beans, you will need pinto beans, bacon, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and chicken broth. These ingredients are readily available in most grocery stores and are relatively inexpensive, making this dish budget-friendly.
Preparation
Start by rinsing and sorting through 1 pound of dried pinto beans to remove any debris or shriveled beans. Then, soak the beans in water overnight to help them cook faster and evenly. In a large pot, cook 6 slices of bacon until crispy, then remove and set aside. In the same pot, sauté 1 diced onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic until softened. Next, add in 1 tablespoon of chili powder and 1 teaspoon of cumin and stir until fragrant.
Cooking
Drain the soaked pinto beans and add them to the pot, along with 6 cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Once the beans are tender, add back in the cooked bacon and let it simmer for an additional 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving
Bush's Southern Pinto Beans can be served as a side dish or as a main course with some crusty bread or rice. You can also add your own twist to the recipe by topping it with shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, or avocado for some added flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Bush's Southern Pinto Beans Recipe is a classic and delicious dish that has stood the test of time. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients, it has become a staple in many Southern homes and a go-to dish for gatherings and potlucks. So the next time you're in the mood for some comfort food, give this recipe a try and savor the taste of Southern tradition.