Description
This Easy Seasoned Pinto Beans recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to prepare tender pinto beans with aromatic spices and fresh cilantro. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, these beans are cooked on the stovetop with simple pantry staples for a comforting, protein-rich option that comes together in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 15-ounce cans pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- ⅓ cup water
- 2 teaspoons fresh cilantro, chopped (or to taste)
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil and Sauté Onion: Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened but not browned.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Reduce the heat to low. Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 30 seconds until the spices are fragrant and well combined with the onion.
- Add Beans and Simmer: Add the rinsed and drained pinto beans along with ⅓ cup water. Stir to combine all ingredients. Increase heat as necessary to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are heated through and the sauce slightly thickens.
- Finish with Cilantro: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the freshly chopped cilantro just before serving to add a bright, fresh flavor.
Notes
- For thicker beans, use less water or cook a few minutes longer.
- Adjust salt to taste depending on seasoning preference.
- For added heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño.
- This recipe pairs well with rice, tortillas, or as a topping for nachos.
