Easy Smoke Flavored Pinto Beans

Perfectly comforting and irresistibly smoky, these Easy Smoke Flavored Pinto Beans are a must-try for anyone craving bold, hearty flavors. Made with budget-friendly dried pinto beans, smoky paprika, and a touch of liquid smoke, this recipe delivers a rich, barbecue-inspired taste without the need for a smoker. Simmered to tender perfection alongside aromatic garlic, onions, and earthy spices like cumin, these beans are a versatile side dish or a satisfying main when served over rice. With minimal prep time and all-day flavor, this dish is both effortless and deeply satisfying. Top with fresh cilantro or a zesty squeeze of lime for a vibrant finishing touch, and watch as this recipe becomes a weeknight favorite! Perfect for those searching for an easy comfort food recipe with a smoky twist.

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:120 mins

Total Time:130 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried pinto beans
• 8 cups water
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
• 1 medium, diced yellow onion
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 whole bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0 optional toppings (e.g., chopped cilantro, lime wedges)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the dried pinto beans under running water to remove debris. Place them in a large bowl and cover with water. Let the beans soak overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse before cooking.

Step 2

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 4

Add the soaked and drained pinto beans to the pot, followed by the 8 cups of water.

Step 5

Stir in the smoked paprika, liquid smoke, bay leaves, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 6

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid, leaving a small gap for steam to escape. Simmer the beans for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender.

Step 7

Once the beans are fully cooked, taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. If the liquid level becomes too low during cooking, you can add a small amount of hot water.

Step 8

Remove the bay leaves before serving. Serve the beans warm as a side dish or over rice, and garnish with your favorite toppings like chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2459.4 grams (2459.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	856

Total Fat 31.90g	41%
Saturated Fat 5.10g	26%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.50g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 3279mg	143%
Total Carbohydrate 113.80g	41%
Dietary Fiber 37.40g	134%
Total Sugars 6.80g
Protein 35.70g	71%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 371mg	29%
Iron 12mg	64%
Potassium 1989mg	42%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 32.4%

Protein: 16.1%

Carbs: 51.4%