Pinto Beans

The pinto bean is one of the most popular beans in the United States and North Western Mexico. It is a medium sized bean with a beige background colour splashed with reddish brown and the name pinto actually means ‘painted’ in spanish.  When cooked, the bean has a soft pink colour and  a creamy texture.

Health Benefits of Pinto Beans

Pinto beans are a powerhouse of nutrients with a range of B-vitamins including super high levels of folate as well as potassium, iron and magnesium.  This energy bean is high in protein, low in fat, can help stabilise your blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol.

Cooking with Pinto Beans

It is often eaten whole in soups or mashed and refried in spicy Mexican bean dishes being used commonly in burrito’s, taco’s and tortilla’s. Pinto beans also make a yummy home made baked beans with onion tomatoes and spices.  Pinto beans are best soaked overnight in the fridge before cooking, this will reduce any chance of digestive gas.  To cook, simply add 3 cups of water to 1 cup of beans, bring to the boil then reduce to a simmer for 1 hour or until ready. Cooked pinto beans will keep in the fridge for around 3 days and uncooked will keep in the cupboard for up to 12 months. A great wholefood to have on hand ready to go.