Western Pinto Beans
Western Pinto Beans are indeed a versatile and essential side dish in our neck of the woods, providing a hearty complement to grilled meats like steak and barbecue ribs. Their creamy texture and rich flavor make them a popular choice for refried beans, enhancing dishes with a satisfying depth that is beloved in many regional recipes.
Western Pinto Beans
Western Pinto Beans are a staple throughout the Southwest. They are traditionally served with grilled steak or barbecued ribs in our neck of the woods. The beans also make wonderful refried beans.
- Prep Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 14 hours 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 pound pinto beans
- Water
- 1 small onion, halved
- 1 bay leaf
- 3/4 pound slab bacon
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
Instructions
- Pick over the beans for small rocks or debris. Rinse well, then cover with cold water and soak for 6 hours or overnight.
- Transfer beans to a slow cooker and add water to cover by 1 inch.
- Add onion, bay leaf and bacon.
- Cook on HIGH for 7 hours, then stir in salt, paprika and cayenne.
- Cook for 1 more hour.
- Remove bacon and chop roughly, then return to slow cooker.
