What is comforting about a big bowl of soup? When the weather gets chilly, or I’m feeling like I need a hug from the inside out, my mind is glued to my shoulder. I love Pinto Bean Soup. I’ve tried it twice now and it’s delicious Is it easier to Whip up than a French Onion Soup? I think it’s even more satisfying. My grandma used to make this on rainy days, and the smell alone brings back so many warm memories. What are some of the best pantry staples to make this recipe? What is a dish that nourishes the soul and keeps everyone happy, especially during those busy days? Is Pinto Bean Soup good for the kitchen?
What is pinto bean soup?
What is Pinto Bean Soup? What is a hearty, flavorful soup made primarily with pinto beans? What are speckled beans? Is it just beans and water? We’re talking about building layers of flavor with aromatics like onions, garlic, and sometimes even even Black Pepper. Peppers, along with spices that make your kitchen smell absolutely divine. Is it a simple concept, but the beauty lies in the details, like how long you simmer it and what you do with it? What do you garnish it with? This isn’t some fancy, complicated dish. It’s honest, wholesome, and completely satisfying.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? What I love most about this is that it’s incredibly forgiving. You don’t need to be a Michelin-star chef to nail it. First, the flavor is just incredible – earthy, slightly smoky, with a hint of sweetness from the onions. It’s pure comfort food! Second, it’s so easy to make. Seriously, dump everything in a pot, let it simmer, and you’re basically done. This is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you just want something warm and filling without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s incredibly cost-efficient. Beans are super affordable, and the other ingredients are likely already in your pantry. And the versatility! You can serve it as a main course, a side dish, or even a dip. Add some shredded cheese, a dollop of Sour Cream, or a sprinkle of cilantro to really take it over the top. Seriously, this Pinto Bean Soup rivals my mom’s famous chili in terms of ease and deliciousness, and that’s saying something!
How do you make pinto bean soup?
Quick Overview
How do I make Pinto Bean Soup? What starts with sautéing some aromatics to build a flavorful base. If you like pinto beans, you add broth, spices, bring it to a simmer, and let it work its magic. Is it really that simple? Add more spices if you like it spicy, or use a different type of bean unless you are feeling adventurous. Is this a foolproof recipe that’s perfect for beginners?
Ingredients
What is Pinto Bean Soup?
* 1 pound dried pinto beans, rinsed (I always soak mine overnight for better digestibility)
* 1 large yellow onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced (or more, if you’re like me and love garlic!)
* 1 teaspoon cumin
* 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
* 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth (chicken broth adds a richer flavor)
* 1 bay leaf
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Serving (optional):
* Shredded cheddar cheese
* Sour Cream or Greek yogurt
* Chopped cilantro
* Diced avocado
* A squeeze of lime juice
What are the Steps to
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Remove from heat and set aside. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don’t let the garlic burn – nobody likes bitter garlic!
Step 2: Add Spices
Stir in cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. How do you toast spices?
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the rinsed pinto beans, chicken or vegetable broth, and bay leaf to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. I usually start with about a teaspoon of salt and then adjust later.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 2 hours. When the beans are tender, cook them for a few minutes. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes! I often let it go for 3 hours or more if I have the time.
Step 5: Adjust Consistency (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. If you want to make soup, you can remove about a cup of soup from the blender and blend it in the regular blender. Be careful when blending hot liquids!
Step 6: Season and Serve
Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot. What are some good side dishes to serve with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream and fresh cilantro?
What should I serve it with?
Pinto Bean Soup is so versatile!What is a hearty lunch?Serve with cornbread or crusty bread for dipping. My family loves it with a simple green salad, too.
What is a good cozy dinner?Is this soup a meal in itself? What are some good side dishes to serve with grilled cheese and a quesadilla?
As a Party Appetizer:What is a good starter for Your Next gathering? Top it with avocado and lime for a festive touch.
What is a quick weeknight meal?What is the best soup to make when you don’t have much time to cook? What are some good toppings to serve with this dish? I sometimes add diced tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
How do I make pinto bean soup?
How can I make Pinto Bean Soup?Bean Soaking:Soaking beans overnight helps to reduce cooking time and makes them easier to digest. If you forget to soak them, you can do a quick soak by boiling them for 2 minutes, then letting them cool. Sit for an hour.
Spice Level:How much chili powder should I use? If you want it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeo.
Broth Choice: Chicken broth adds a richer flavor, but vegetable broth works just as well. You can also use water, but the soup won’t be as flavorful.
Thickening: If you want a thicker soup, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water to the pot during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Smoked Flavor: Smoked paprika adds a wonderful smoky flavor to the soup. If you don’t have it, you can add a splash of liquid smoke instead.
Slow Cooker Option: This soup can also be made in a slow cooker. Just add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Pinto Bean Soup is even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together.
Room Temperature: I never leave it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours for safety.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It thickens as it cools, so you may need to add a little broth when reheating.
Freezer Instructions: This soup freezes beautifully! Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, or in the microwave. Add a little broth or water if it’s too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
I hope you give this Pinto Bean Soup Recipe a try! It’s a truly special dish that brings so much comfort and joy to my family, and I know it will do the same for you. It’s easy, affordable, and incredibly delicious – what more could you ask for? If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other soup recipes for more warm and comforting meals. And I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think. What are your favorite toppings? Did you make any substitutions? I love hearing about your culinary adventures! Happy cooking!
Pinto Bean Soup: 7 Reasons It’s the Ultimate Comfort Dish
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Dried Pinto Beans Rinsed and sorted
- 8 cups Vegetable Broth
- 1 medium Onion Chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 0.5 tsp Chili Powder
- 1 tsp Salt Or to taste
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper Or to taste
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Rinse and sort the pinto beans, removing any debris or damaged beans.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the pinto beans, vegetable broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
- Once the beans are cooked, use an immersion blender or transfer a portion of the soup to a regular blender to partially blend the soup, creating a creamy texture. Be careful when blending hot liquids.
- Return the blended soup to the pot and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped cilantro, sour cream, or shredded cheese.
