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Pinto Beans

Perhaps because they hail from Mexico, pinto beans are especially tasty cooked with lime.

The medium-sized pinto bean is a hybrid that takes its name from the Spanish word for “painted.” Medium brown, with dark-brown spatter markings, pintos fade to a uniform pale beige or pinkish color after cooking. Perhaps because they hail from Mexico, they are especially tasty cooked with lime, chiles, and even beer.

Varieties

Pinto beans are related to the kidney beans and other members of the Phaseolus species of beans.

Buying and storing tips

Dried pinto beans should be stored in an airtight glass or ceramic jars in a cool dry place, where they will keep for up to a year.

Availability

Dried and canned pinto beans are widely available year-round.

Preparation, uses, and tips

Because their texture is very smooth, pintos may be used in virtually all methods of bean preparation. Purée them for soup bases or use them in casseroles; refry them for frijoles refritos and use them in burritos. Before cooking, soak pintos for 8 hours, then pressure cook for 18 minutes or simmer on top of the stove for 2 to 2 1/2 hours. 1 cup of dried pintos makes 3 cups of cooked beans. Use pinto beans to make chili, soups, and stews, or use them in salads or in Mexican dishes. They can also be puréed and used as a spread or dip.

Nutritional Highlights

Pinto beans, 1 cup (171g) (boiled)
Calories: 234
Protein: 14.0g
Carbohydrate: 43.8g
Total Fat: 0.89g
Fiber: 14.7g
*Excellent source of: Iron (4.5mg), Potassium (800mg), Selenium (12 mcg), and Folate (294mcg)

*Foods that are an “excellent source” of a particular nutrient provide 20% or more of the Recommended Daily Value. Foods that are a “good source” of a particular nutrient provide between 10 and 20% of the Recommended Daily Value.

Health benefits and concerns

Health benefits and concerns for legumes
Many health benefits and concerns associated with this food are applicable to other legumes. Read about health benefits and concerns for legumes for a full description.