Instant Pot Pinto Beans (No Soaking) Recipe

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 3 slices bacon
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 pound dried pinto beans, rinsed
• 1 cups water
• cup chopped onions, or to taste (Optional)
• 2 green chile peppers
• 1 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• teaspoon ground cumin
• teaspoon paprika

Directions

Step 1: Gather all the ingredients.

Step 2: Turn on a multi-functional pressure cooker (such as an Instant Pot) and select the Saut function. Add the bacon and cook, turning once, for 4 to 6 minutes.

Step 3: Add the chicken broth, pinto beans, water, onions, chile peppers, garlic powder, salt, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Close and lock the lid. Select high pressure according to the manufacturer's instructions and set the timer for 45 minutes. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for pressure to build up.

Step 5: Once the cooking time is complete, release the pressure using the natural-release method according to the manufacturer's instructions. This will take anywhere from 10 to 40 minutes.

Step 6: After the pressure has been fully released, unlock and remove the lid. Remove the bacon and chile peppers. Chop them to your desired consistency and return them to the pot.

Step 7: Use a potato masher to mash the beans to your preferred consistency. Stir the mixture well to combine everything.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (8 servings total):

Calories	236
Total Fat	3g (3% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	1g (3% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	7mg (2% Daily Value)
Sodium	973mg (42% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate	39g (14% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	9g (34% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	3g
Protein	15g (29% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	32mg (36% Daily Value)
Calcium	73mg (6% Daily Value)
Iron	3mg (18% Daily Value)
Potassium	880mg (19% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Instant Pot Pinto Beans are a quick and easy version of a classic, hearty dish that has been a staple in many households across the world. Using a pressure cooker like the Instant Pot, you can skip the traditional soaking step and still enjoy perfectly tender beans in a fraction of the time. With the addition of bacon, onions, and chili peppers, this recipe brings a rich, smoky flavor to the beans, making them an irresistible side dish or main course.

History and Origin of Pinto Beans

Pinto beans, scientifically known as Phaseolus vulgaris, have a long history that traces back to pre-Columbian times in the Americas. Indigenous peoples in Mexico and the Southwestern United States cultivated these beans, and they became a staple food due to their adaptability to various climates and soil conditions. Their name, pinto, comes from the Spanish word for painted, which refers to the speckled pattern on the beans' skin. Over time, pinto beans became popular worldwide, especially in American and Mexican cuisines, due to their versatility and nutritional value.

Regional Variations

The Instant Pot Pinto Beans recipe is most commonly found in Mexican and Southwestern American cuisines, where beans are a central part of everyday meals. The dish can vary regionally with additions like jalapeos, cilantro, or lime juice, depending on local preferences. In northern Mexico, pinto beans are often cooked with bacon or lard, adding a savory depth to the dish, while in the U.S., the beans might be paired with cornbread or rice to make a complete meal. The beauty of pinto beans lies in their ability to absorb flavors, making them adaptable to regional spices and seasonings.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While pinto beans are frequently compared to other beans like black beans or kidney beans, their flavor and texture are distinct. Pinto beans have a creamy, slightly sweet flavor and a soft texture when cooked, making them perfect for mashing or serving whole. Unlike black beans, which have a firmer, denser texture, pinto beans absorb flavors more readily, which makes them ideal for dishes like refried beans, stews, and soups. Additionally, pinto beans tend to be lighter in color and can easily take on the color of the ingredients they are cooked with, such as the red hue from tomatoes or the rich browns from bacon and spices.

Where to Serve Pinto Beans

Instant Pot Pinto Beans are often served in Mexican restaurants or American diners, especially in the Southwestern U.S., as a side dish to complement meats like grilled chicken, pork, or beef. They can also serve as a filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas. At home, they are commonly paired with rice and cornbread for a hearty, comforting meal. In more creative iterations, these beans are transformed into refried beans or bean dips, often seen at parties or gatherings. The versatility of pinto beans means they can be served in many different forms and are a beloved addition to casual and festive meals alike.

Interesting Facts about Pinto Beans

• Health Benefits: Pinto beans are packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious and budget-friendly food choice. They are particularly rich in folate, iron, and potassium, making them an excellent choice for maintaining heart health.
• Cultural Significance: In Mexican cuisine, pinto beans are often cooked with chiles and spices, symbolizing the fusion of indigenous and Spanish culinary traditions. They are also featured in celebrations like Day of the Dead, where beans are used to make offerings to the ancestors.
• Easy to Store: Dried pinto beans have a long shelf life and are a pantry staple in many homes. They can be stored for months and are quick to cook when using modern kitchen appliances like the Instant Pot.
• Versatile Dish: Pinto beans are not only used in savory dishes but are also incorporated into sweet recipes in some cultures. In certain parts of Mexico, beans are used in desserts like bean tamales or bean cakes, offering a surprising twist on traditional bean dishes.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Pinto Beans (No Soaking) are an easy, quick, and flavorful way to enjoy a dish that has roots deeply embedded in the history of the Americas. Whether you are preparing them for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe offers a delicious, nutritious, and versatile meal that can be customized to fit your taste. From its humble origins in indigenous cultures to its widespread popularity in modern kitchens, pinto beans remain a favorite ingredient in many dishes worldwide.

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