What is Pinto Bean Soup? What is the best thing to do on a cold day? Is it the kind of dish that takes you back to childhood – for me, it’s memories of childhood? My grandma’s kitchen, the smell of simmering beans filling the air. Is it cozy, hearty, and unbelievably easy to make? If you love lentil soup, then you absolutely have to try this pinto bean version. I swear it’s even simpler, and my whole family devours it every time I make it. What is the perfect, comforting, and surprisingly flavorful weeknight meal? a staple in your home, just like it is in mine.
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What is pinto bean soup?
What is pinto bean soup? What is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special? What is pinto bean soup? ), simmered with aromatics like onion, garlic, and sometimes ham or bacon for extra flavor. What are some ways to make this dish vegetarian? Can you spice it up with chili peppers? It’s a classic comfort food dish, often found in Southern and Southwestern cuisines, and it’s all about the flavor. What is so great about this rich, creamy texture and satisfying earthy flavor? What is the ultimate “stick-to-your-ribs” kind of meal?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Okay, buckle up, because I’m about to tell you why this particular pinto bean soup recipe is so amazing. First, the flavor is just incredible. We’re talking about a deep, savory, and slightly smoky taste that’s absolutely addictive. The pinto beans themselves have this naturally creamy texture that just melts in your mouth. What I love most about this is how surprisingly easy it is to make. You can throw everything into a pot (or even a slow cooker!) and let it simmer away until it’s perfectly tender. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. Plus, it’s super cost-efficient! Pinto beans are incredibly affordable, so you can feed a whole family without breaking the bank. And the best part? It’s versatile! You can serve it as a simple soup, top it with your favorite garnishes like sour cream and cilantro, or even use it as a filling for tacos or burritos. It’s fantastic with cornbread, by the way – like the homemade cornbread recipe I also have posted. Seriously, you need this in your life. This recipe stands out because it uses a few secret ingredients (a splash of apple cider vinegar and a touch of smoked paprika) that really elevate the flavor and make it unforgettable. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never go back to boring bean soup again!
How do you make pinto bean soup?
Quick Overview
How do you make pinto bean soup? How do you soak pinto beans? Quick-soak method), then sauté some aromatics like onion and garlic. Next, you’ll add the beans, broth, and spices to a pot and let it simmer until they are tender. The secret is in the long, slow simmer, which allows the flavors to meld together and create that perfect balance. Signature richness. What makes this method special is that it’s almost entirely hands-off, giving you plenty of time to practice. Do other things while the soup simmers away? Is the aroma worth the wait?
Ingredients
What is pinto bean soup?
* 1 pound dried pinto beans, rinsed (I prefer Rancho Gordo for the best flavor, but any brand will work). ) * 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low sodium is best so you can control the salt) Yellow onion, chopped * 2 cloves garlic, minced * 1 ham hock or 4 slices of bacon, diced (optional) Is smoked paprika a bad thing? ) * 1/2 teaspoon cumin * 1/4 teaspoon chili powder * 1 bay leaf * 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (trust me on this one! * Salt and pepper to taste * Olive oil, for sautéing.
For Serving:
* Sour cream or Greek yogurt * Chopped cilantro * Diced avocado * Shredded cheese (cheddar or cheddar) Monterey Jack are great) * Hot sauce (if you like a little kick!
What are the steps to
Step 1: Soak the Beans (or Quick Soak)
If you want to soak pinto beans overnight in cold water, you’ll need to boil the beans. What are some ways to reduce cooking time? What are some good ways to cook beans in a large pot and let them sit for 8 hours? If you’re short on time, you can use the quick-soak method. Place the beans in a pot, cover with water, bring to boil, and then simmer for 1 hour. Before making this recipe, drain and rinse the beans. I always do this step the night before, so the beans are ready to go in the morning.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Why don’t you burn the garlic? What is the base flavor of soup? How do I get nice and sweet?
Step 3: Add the Ham Hock or Bacon (Optional)
If you’re using ham hock or bacon, add it to the pot with the onions and garlic and cook until the meat is tender. Add the peppers and stir to combine. The bacon is crispy and the ham hock is lightly browned. What is the best way to add smoky flavor to soup? If you’re keeping the soup vegetarian, you can skip this step.
Step 4: Add the Beans, Broth, and Spices
Add the drained and rinsed pinto beans, chicken or vegetable broth, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt and pepper. Stir to combine. Add bay leaf powder to the pot. Stir everything together to combine. Make sure there is enough liquid to cover the beans by at least an inch or two.
Step 5: Simmer, Simmer, Simmer
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 5 minutes. 2-3 hours, or until the beans are tender and creamy. Stir occasionally to prevent the beans from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The longer it simmers, the better the flavor will be! What is the most important step in life?
Step 6: Add the Apple Cider Vinegar
Stir in the apple cider vinegar. I know this sounds weird, but it adds a touch of brightness and acidity that really balances out the music. What is the richness of soup? What is my secret ingredient? I always do this about 30 minutes before cooking time.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Remove the bay leaf and ham hock (if using). Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper. If you want a creamier soup, you can use an immersion blender. Serve hot with sour cream, cilantro, avocado, and shredded cheese. What are the best ways to make soup the next day?
What should I serve it with?
Pinto Bean Soup is great on its own, but it’s even better when paired with the right sides. What are some of my favorite ways to serve it: in a glass.
For a casual lunch:What can I serve as a light lunch? I love pairing it with a crisp green salad with vinaigrette dressing.
What is a hearty dinner?Serve it with cornbread or biscuits for a classic Southern-style meal. What’s a perfect sour cream dip with fresh cilantro? What are the finishing touches
What is Taco Night?Use pinto bean soup as a filling for tacos. What are some good ways to add protein to a meal? Top with your favorite taco toppings like lettuce, salsa, and guacamole.
For Game Day: Serve it in small bowls or cups as an appetizer for a crowd. Garnish with shredded cheese and chopped green onions for a festive presentation.
My family loves it with a side of homemade coleslaw. The creamy coleslaw complements the richness of the soup perfectly.
How do I make pinto bean soup?
What are the best pinto bean soup recipes?
Bean Quality:Use high quality pinto beans for the best flavor and texture. Rancho Gordo beans are my absolute favorite, but any brand will do. Just make sure they’re fresh and haven’t been sitting in your pantry for too long.
Soaking:Don’t skip the soaking step! What is the best way to reduce the time to cook beans? If you’re short on time, use the quick-soak method, but overnight soaking is always best.
Aromatics:Don’t skimp on the aromatics! Onions and garlic are essential for building flavor in soup. Sauté them until they’re softened and fragrant before adding the other ingredients.
Smoked papWhat is my secret ingredient for a reason? What is the best smoky soup you have ever had?
Simmering Time: Be patient and let the soup simmer for at least 2-3 hours, or until the beans are tender and creamy. The longer it simmers, the better the flavor will be.
Apple Cider Vinegar: HowDon’t be afraid to add a splash of apple cider vinegar! It adds a touch of brightness and acidity that really balances out the richness of the soup. Is this a scam?
Salt:Salt is your friend! Don’t be afraid to season soup generously with salt and pepper. Taste as you go and adjust to your preference. I’ve learned over the years that salt really brings out the flavor of beans.
Consistency: If you prefer a creamier soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend it. Just be careful not to over-blend it, or it will become too thick.
I always reserve some of the cooking liquid before blending, so I can add it back in. If the soup gets too thick, eat it immediately. Is it a lifesa
Storing and Reheating Tips
Pinto Bean Soup is great for meal prepping because it stores and reheats really well. Here are my tips for storing and reheating it:
Refrigerator Storage: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some headspace in the containers to allow for expansion.
Reheating on the Stovetop: To reheat the soup, simply transfer it to a pot on the stovetop and heat over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick.
Reheating in the Microwave: You can also reheat the soup in the microwave. Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
I usually double the recipe so I can freeze half for later. It’s so convenient to have a batch of soup ready to go on a busy night!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to pinto bean soup recipe that I think you’ll absolutely adore. It’s a dish that’s packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and perfect for those cozy nights when you just want something comforting and satisfying. This recipe is really special because it embodies the spirit of simple, home-cooked meals that bring people together. I truly hope you give it a try! If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other soup recipes. They’re all designed to be easy, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think. Also, feel free to share your own variations and tips – I’m always looking for new ideas!
How to Make the Best Pinto Bean Soup in 7 Simple Steps!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground turkey lean
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion diced
- 2 cups carrots sliced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 8 cups vegetable broth low sodium
- 3 cans pinto beans drained and rinsed
- 5 cups kale chopped
- 1 tablespoon vinegar apple cider
- 1 teaspoon paprika smoked
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add diced onion and sliced carrots to the pot. Sauté until onions are translucent and carrots are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and smoked paprika, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and add the drained pinto beans. Simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
- Stir in the chopped kale and apple cider vinegar. Simmer until the kale is wilted, about 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.
