Ranchero Beans

Get ready to savor the bold and comforting flavors of Ranchero Beans, a classic Mexican-inspired dish that’s perfect as a hearty side or a satisfying main course. This recipe features tender, slow-simmered pinto beans infused with layers of flavor from smoky paprika, earthy cumin, and zesty chili powder. Diced jalapeño and fresh lime juice lend a vibrant kick, while chopped cilantro adds a refreshing finish. With canned tomatoes and rich chicken or vegetable broth as the base, this dish is beautifully seasoned with aromatic garlic, oregano, and onion. Ready in just a couple of hours, Ranchero Beans are a versatile crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with rice, tacos, or your favorite protein. Perfect for meal prep or feeding a gathering, this bean recipe combines wholesome ingredients and bold spices for a true home-cooked delight.

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:120 mins

Total Time:135 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried pinto beans
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium jalapeño, diced (seeds removed for less heat)
• 15 ounces canned diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1.5 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 medium lime, juiced

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the dried pinto beans under cold water and remove any debris. Soak the beans in water overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and diced jalapeño. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), chicken or vegetable broth, soaked and drained beans, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.

Step 6

Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot with a lid, leaving it slightly ajar, and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Add more broth or water if needed to keep the beans submerged and prevent them from drying out.

Step 7

Once the beans are tender and the liquid has thickened to your desired consistency, stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice for a burst of fresh flavor.

Step 8

Serve hot as a side dish or over rice for a filling main course. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2033 grams (2033.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1135

Total Fat 47.60g	61%
Saturated Fat 8.40g	42%
Polyunsaturated Fat 7.10g
Cholesterol 9mg	3%
Sodium 7286mg	317%
Total Carbohydrate 140.10g	51%
Dietary Fiber 47.60g	170%
Total Sugars 22.20g
Protein 46.40g	93%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 465mg	36%
Iron 17mg	94%
Potassium 3100mg	66%

*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: 36.5%

Protein: 15.8%

Carbs: 47.7%