Old-fashioned Pinto Bean Soup

Pinto Bean Soup Recipe with Bell Peppers, Tomatoes, and Green Chiles

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Old-fashioned Pinto Bean Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe is packed with flavor and is sure to warm you up from the inside out.

History

Pinto beans have been a staple in many cultures for centuries. They are a versatile legume that can be used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, and salads. This recipe for Old-fashioned Pinto Bean Soup is a classic dish that has been passed down through generations.

Ingredients

nonstick cooking spray
0.5 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
0.5 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
2 cans (15.5 oz / 439 g) pinto beans, undrained
1 can (14.5 oz / 411 g) no-added-salt whole tomatoes, undrained and chopped
1 can (4 oz / 113 g) diced green chiles, drained
0.5 cup water
1.5 tsp ground cumin
0.25 tsp cayenne pepper
0.5 tsp basil
3 sliced green onions

How to prepare

Coat a saucepan with cooking spray.
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat until hot.
Add bell peppers and sauté for 2 minutes.
Remove from heat and add 1 can of pinto beans, then mash them.
Add the remaining beans and the next 6 ingredients, and stir well.
Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat and let it simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and top with green onions.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
Stir in some cooked rice or quinoa for added texture.
Top the soup with shredded cheese or sour cream for a creamy finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to mash some of the pinto beans to help thicken the soup and give it a creamy texture.

- Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can add more cumin for a smokier flavor or more cayenne pepper for extra heat.

- For a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup in a blender before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Old-fashioned Pinto Bean Soup with a side of cornbread or a green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the soup uncovered to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Stir the soup occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use black beans or kidney beans in place of pinto beans.

- Use any color bell peppers you have on hand for a pop of color in the soup.

Make Ahead Tips

Old-fashioned Pinto Bean Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Old-fashioned Pinto Bean Soup with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice for a fresh and vibrant finish.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Old-fashioned Pinto Bean Soup with a side of cornbread, a green salad, or a side of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Old-fashioned Pinto Bean Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Old-fashioned Pinto Bean Soup contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Old-fashioned Pinto Bean Soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Old-fashioned Pinto Bean Soup contains approximately 1 gram of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Old-fashioned Pinto Bean Soup contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Pinto beans are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe does not contain any common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

Old-fashioned Pinto Bean Soup is a nutritious and filling dish that is low in fat and calories. It is a good source of carbohydrates and protein, making it a satisfying meal option.

Summary

Old-fashioned Pinto Bean Soup is a classic and comforting dish that is perfect for a chilly day. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup with your loved ones today!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Old-fashioned Pinto Bean Soup. It was a cold winter day, and I had just arrived at my friend Martha's house for our weekly recipe exchange. Martha was known for her delicious and comforting soups, and I couldn't wait to see what she had in store for me that day.

As I walked into Martha's cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the warm aroma of simmering soup. Martha was busy chopping vegetables and stirring a large pot on the stove. She smiled and waved me over, excited to share her latest creation with me.

"Hey there, Margaret! I have something special for you today," Martha said as she handed me a piece of paper. "This is my recipe for Old-fashioned Pinto Bean Soup. It's a family favorite, and I think you'll love it."

I eagerly took the recipe and scanned over the ingredients and instructions. The combination of pinto beans, vegetables, and savory spices sounded absolutely delicious. I couldn't wait to try it out in my own kitchen.

Martha went on to tell me the story behind the recipe. She explained that it had been passed down through generations in her family, originating from her great-grandmother who used to make it during the Great Depression. The soup was hearty, flavorful, and incredibly comforting - perfect for stretching a tight budget and warming up on a cold winter day.

I was touched by the history and tradition behind the recipe, and I knew I had to make it for my own family. As I thanked Martha for sharing the recipe with me, I promised to pass it along to future generations as well.

That evening, I set to work making Old-fashioned Pinto Bean Soup in my own kitchen. I soaked the pinto beans overnight and started sautéing onions, garlic, and carrots in a large pot. The aroma that filled my kitchen was reminiscent of Martha's cozy home, and I smiled as I thought of the generations of women who had made this soup before me.

I added the soaked beans, diced tomatoes, and spices to the pot, letting it simmer gently on the stove. The savory scent of cumin, chili powder, and paprika wafted through the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

As the soup cooked, I thought back to my own childhood and the memories of my grandmother's cooking. She was a master in the kitchen, able to whip up delicious meals from simple ingredients. I remembered watching her carefully measure and mix, tasting and adjusting until everything was just right. Her love and passion for cooking had inspired me to learn and experiment in the kitchen as well.

When the soup was finally ready, I ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of my labor.

As I took my first spoonful, the flavors exploded in my mouth - rich and hearty, with a hint of smokiness from the spices. The beans were perfectly tender, and the vegetables added a satisfying crunch. It was everything I had hoped for and more.

I savored each spoonful, feeling a sense of connection to the past and to all the women who had come before me, passing down their knowledge and recipes through the generations. I knew that this Old-fashioned Pinto Bean Soup would become a staple in my own family, a reminder of the love and tradition that went into every bowl.

And as I sat at the table, enjoying my soup and thinking of my grandmother and Martha, I felt grateful for the gift of cooking and the joy of sharing delicious meals with loved ones. In that moment, I knew that this recipe would hold a special place in my heart for years to come.