Pinto Beans And Rice

Packed With Protein and Low In Fat

Pinto beans are most notable as key ingredients for popular Mexican dishes including burritos, chili, dips, tostados and soups. However these versatile beans have many applications. You can find numerous appetizers, soups, salads, main and side dishes that include pinto-beans. Furthermore, these beans can be found on the dinner table of many southern families.

Here are some of the nutritional benefits of eating the Pinto Bean:

•   Excellent source of protein
  
•   Low in Fat
  
•   They'll Fill You Up Without A Lot Of Calories
  
•   Contain soluble fiber which is said to lower cholesterol
  
•   Good source of several minerals

Pintos are a great replacement for red meats. A half cup of cooked pinto beans will provide about 120 calories and 10 grams of protein, without the saturated fat.

Like most beans, pinto-beans contain complex carbohydrates that are not easily digestible by some. If you don't have problems eating other beans, these beans should also not be problematic.

Eat a hearty bowl of pinto beans and rice, if you're looking for a food that is comparable to meat and dairy products without high calories and saturated fats.

Pinto Bean Recipe

Here are cooking instruction for preparing a tasty pot of beans:

You can pick up a bag of dry pinto beans at your local grocery store. Start with a small bag of beans, about 1 pound. This should produce about 5-6 cups of cooked beans.

Sorting and rinsing your beans is very simple. Sort through your beans removing any defective beans or small stones that may be present. Place the beans in a colander and rinse several times.

In order to make that perfect dish you have to soak your beans before cooking. There are two methods of soaking: quick soaking and overnight soaking. I prefer the overnight method.

•   For overnight soaking just cover beans with 3 inches of cold water and place in the refrigerator
•   Quick method soaking requires you to put your beans in a large pot covered with at least 3 inches of water. Bring water to a boil, cover beans and let them cook for 2 minutes. Then let beans stand for 1-4 hours with lid on

After the beans have soaked overnight or for 1-4 hours discard the water. Replace discarded water with fresh water. Replace beans in pot and cover with two inches of water. Bring beans to boil, replace lid and reduce heat to simmer. Simmer for 4 hours, checking beans frequently to ensure beans have enough water. Add water if necessary.

It's time to add seasoning after 2 hours of simmering. I like to season my pinto beans by adding a little chopped onion, fresh garlic, and seasoning salt to taste. It's a good idea to add seasoning based on your personal taste. When beans are tender they are done.

For a very healthy meal, serve your beans with whole grain rice.

Enjoy your Pinto Beans.

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Also try this Lima Bean Recipe
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