Pinto Beans 101: The Fun Guide to Canning and Cooking These Versatile Gems

If you want a budget-friendly protein source that also packs a flavorful punch, pinto beans are an excellent choice! These little legumes are not just tasty; they are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Whether you’re planning to can them for later use or whipping up a hearty dish today, this guide provides everything you need to know about these culinary gems.

What Are Pinto Beans?

Pinto beans, with their distinctive mottled pinkish-brown skin, shine in many global cuisines, especially in Mexican and southwestern U.S. dishes. Known for their creamy texture, pinto beans offer a fantastic source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. In fact, just one cup of cooked pinto beans contains approximately 15 grams of protein and 15 grams of fiber, making them an excellent choice for a balanced diet. They're not only healthy but also easy to cook and incorporate into a wide range of recipes.

Why Should You Can Pinto Beans?

Canning your own pinto beans allows you to enjoy their delightful taste all year round. Here are several reasons to consider canning:

1. Cost-Effective: Store-bought canned beans often cost between $1.50 to $3 per can. By canning your own, you can save significant money—commonly a penny per ounce when buying dried beans in bulk.

   
   

2. Flavor and Freshness: Home-canned beans often taste better than their store-bought counterparts, as you can control the texture and flavor, ensuring they align perfectly with your expectations.

   
   

3. Convenience: The ease of having canned beans ready means quick meal options—ideal for busy weeknights!

   
   

4. Sustainability: Canning means less food waste. With proper storage, your beans can last for years, minimizing reliance on single-use packaging from store-bought products.

   
   

Now that we’ve established the benefits, let’s explore the process of canning these nutritious little treasures!

Canning Pinto Beans: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before starting, make sure you have the following:

• Dry pinto beans

• Salt

• Water

• Canning jars and lids (quart size)

• A pressure canner

• A funnel and ladle

• A jar lifter and clean cloth

  
  

Step 2: Prepare the Beans

1. Rinse the Beans: Begin by rinsing the pinto beans under cold water to remove any dirt and impurities.

   
   

2. Soak Them (optional): You can soak your beans overnight in plenty of water.

   
   

3. Drain and Rinse: Drain the beans and give them another rinse to ensure they are clean.

   
   

Step 3: Fill the Jars

1. Prepare Your Jars: Make sure your canning jars are clean and hot.

   

   
   

2. Fill the Jars: Use a funnel to add just shy of 1 cup of dried pinto beans to the bottom of each quart jar.

   

3. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to each quart jar.

   

4. Add Water: Pour hot water into the jars, leaving an inch of headspace at the top. This is crucial for a proper seal.

   
   

5. Remove Air Bubbles: Use a chop stick to release any trapped air bubbles.

   

6. Seal the Jars: Wipe the rims with a clean cloth and secure the lids until finger tip tight. (For quality, American made Superb canning lids and jars follow this link and use the coupon code WP20 to get 20% off your purchase.)

   
   

Step 4: Process the Jars

1. Load the Canner: Carefully place the jars in your pressure canner.

   

2. Process: Follow the manufacturer's instructions to use your canner. Process pinto beans at a pressure of 10 pounds for 90 minutes if at sea level.  (Don't forget to adjust the time for your elevation if you are above 1000 feet.)

   
   

3. Cooling Down: When the processing time is up, let the canner drop pressure down naturally. After the pressure is at zero, remove the lid and allow it to cool for 10 minutes before removing the jars. Place the jars on a heat resistant surface.

   
   

4. Check the Seals: After 24 hours, make sure the seals are tight by pressing down in the center of each lid. If it pops back, it’s not sealed correctly. If not sealed, place in refrigerator and use in the next few days. If they have a proper seal, remove the ring and wash them with hot soapy water.

   
   

Step 5: Store Your Pinto Beans

Store your canned pinto beans in a cool, dry, dark place. They should last for 1-3 years.

Cooking with Pinto Beans

Now that you’ve successfully canned your beans, it's time to enjoy cooking with them!

Pinto Bean Recipes to Try

1. Pinto Bean Chili: Start with sautéing some onions and garlic. Add your canned pinto beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, and let it simmer for a filling meal.

   
   

2. Refried Beans: Heat canned pinto beans with cumin, onion, garlic and lard and mash them for delicious refried beans. They're perfect for tacos or as a side dish.

   
   

3. Pinto Bean Salad: Combine canned pinto beans with corn, diced bell peppers, onions, olive oil, and lime juice for a refreshing salad.

   
   

4. Soup: Add your canned beans to any soup for an extra boost of protein and texture.

   
   

5. Burritos: Use pinto beans as a filling for burritos, along with rice, cheese, and your favorite vegetables.

   
   

Additional Tips for Cooking Pinto Beans

• Seasoning is Key: Spices can elevate the flavor of beans. Consider using cumin, coriander, and garlic powder.

  
  

• Experiment: Pinto beans are versatile! Use them in various cuisines and innovative dishes.

  
  

• Freeze What You Don’t Eat: If you open a jar and can’t finish it, think about freezing the leftovers in an airtight container.

  
  

Enjoying Pinto Beans in Your Kitchen

Pinto beans are a culinary treasure that offers incredible value and versatility. Whether you can them for future meals or dive into a mouthwatering recipe, these legumes are bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy both the process and the delightful dishes that you can create with your home-canned pinto beans.