Texas Beans

Dive into the heart of Southern comfort with this robust Texas Beans recipe, a dish packed with smoky, spicy, and savory flavors that are sure to satisfy. Featuring tender pinto beans simmered in a rich broth infused with crispy bacon, aromatic garlic, and a vibrant blend of spices including smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder, this recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. The addition of diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and a hint of brown sugar balances the heat from fresh jalapeño, creating a deep, hearty flavor profile. Perfect as a main course or a side dish for a barbecue feast, Texas Beans is a versatile favorite that pairs beautifully with warm cornbread or tortillas. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, this dish is slow-cooked to perfection, making it a fragrant and satisfying choice for your next family dinner or gathering.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:120 mins

Total Time:140 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups pinto beans
• 6 slices bacon
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium jalapeño, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 14-ounce can canned diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse and sort the pinto beans, removing any debris. Soak them in water overnight or use the quick-soak method (cover with water, bring to a boil, then let sit for 1 hour). Drain and rinse before using.

Step 2

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot.

Step 3

In the same pot, add the diced onion and jalapeño. Sauté over medium heat for 5 minutes, or until softened.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices and tomato paste to bloom.

Step 6

Add the soaked and drained beans, chicken broth, water, diced tomatoes, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender. If the liquid level gets too low, add a bit more water or broth.

Step 8

Crumble the cooked bacon and stir it into the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Step 9

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. For added freshness, garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Step 10

Serve the Texas Beans hot with cornbread, tortillas, or as a hearty side dish for barbecue.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2491.6 grams (2491.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1349

Total Fat 56.40g	72%
Saturated Fat 12.50g	63%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.80g
Cholesterol 56mg	19%
Sodium 6843mg	298%
Total Carbohydrate 148.60g	54%
Dietary Fiber 46.10g	165%
Total Sugars 35.00g
Protein 68.40g	137%

Vitamin D 8IU	39%
Calcium 493mg	38%
Iron 17mg	95%
Potassium 4070mg	87%

*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: 36.9%

Protein: 19.9%

Carbs: 43.2%