Smoky Ranch Style Beans Recipe – Easy, Flavorful, and Vegetarian-Friendly

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If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make, you’ve come to the right place! Our Smoky Ranch Style Beans recipe is a perfect combination of savory, sweet, and smokey flavors that make it the ultimate side dish or vegetarian meal. The star ingredients? Pinto beans, tomato paste, and a special blend of spices like cumin and paprika.

Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, this recipe is simple enough to whip up in no time. Let’s dive into the details and show you how to make this mouth-watering dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 cups dried pinto beans (or 4 cups canned beans)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any cooking oil)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or maple syrup for a twist)
• 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1-2 cups water (depending on desired bean texture)

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Beans: If you don’t have pinto beans, feel free to substitute with kidney beans, navy beans, or black beans.
• Sweetener: Swap brown sugar for honey or maple syrup for a more natural sweet touch.
• Spices: Add a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat, or use smoked paprika for an enhanced smoky flavor.

How to Prepare Your Ranch Style Beans:

Step 1: Soak Your Beans

Soaking dried beans is simple, but it does take a bit of time. Don’t worry, it’s totally worth it! Here’s how:

1. Rinse and sort your beans. Check for any pebbles or debris before adding them to your bowl.
2. Add salt and water. For every 2 cups of beans, add enough water to cover them by about 2 inches. Let them soak for at least 4 hours (ideally overnight) at room temperature.

Step 2: Cook the Beans

Once your beans are soaked and ready, it’s time to cook:

1. Cook the soaked beans in a large Dutch oven or stock pot. Cover the beans with water (about 1-2 inches above the beans) and bring to a simmer. Cook on low for about 90 minutes until the beans are tender.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Simmer

While the beans are cooking, prepare the seasoning mix:

1. Mix your spices. In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add to beans. After the initial 90 minutes of cooking, stir in the tomato paste, chopped onion, minced garlic, and your seasoning mix. Add 1-2 cups of water, depending on your desired bean texture.
3. Simmer until fully cooked. Cover and simmer on low for another 90 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the beans start to dry out, you can add a little more water.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

You can serve the beans as-is for a hearty, flavorful side dish, or mash them slightly for a smoother texture. Either way, they are sure to impress!

Additional Tips for Perfect Ranch Style Beans:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: If you’re cooking a large batch, be sure your beans are not packed too tightly in the pot to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Adjust Consistency: If you prefer thicker beans, mash a few with the back of a spoon for a creamy texture.
3. Add Fresh Herbs: Top your finished dish with freshly chopped cilantro for an added layer of flavor.

How to Store and Reheat:

• Storage: Allow the beans to cool completely before storing. Place in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze any leftovers in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water.

Nutrition Breakdown:

• Calories: 250 per serving (1 cup)
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 8g
• Fat: 4g
• Carbs: 45g
• Sugar: 10g

Health Benefits of Ranch Style Beans:

• High in Fiber: Pinto beans are an excellent source of fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps keep you full longer.
• Rich in Protein: This dish provides a plant-based source of protein, making it perfect for vegetarians and vegans.
• Antioxidant-Rich Spices: Spices like cumin and paprika are packed with antioxidants that support your immune system.

FAQs About Ranch Style Beans:

1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Yes, you can! Simply rinse and drain two 15-ounce cans of pinto beans and skip the soaking step. Reduce the cooking time to about 30 minutes.

2. How can I make the beans spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the seasoning mix for an extra kick!

3. Can I make Ranch Style Beans in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After soaking the beans, add them to a slow cooker with the seasonings and water. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Suggested Meal Pairings:

Here are 4 ways to enjoy your Ranch Style Beans:

1. On a Salad: Top your favorite greens with beans, a squeeze of lime, and avocado for a light meal.
2. As a Burrito Filling: Wrap these beans in a tortilla with rice, salsa, and guacamole for a delicious vegetarian burrito.
3. With Grilled Vegetables: Serve alongside grilled corn, zucchini, or bell peppers for a satisfying veggie combo.
4. With a Slice of Fresh Bread: Soak up the savory beans with a side of crusty bread or cornbread.

You Might Also Enjoy:

1. Vegetarian Chili – A hearty and filling chili packed with vegetables and beans.
2. Smoky Black Bean Soup – Another bean dish with rich, smoky flavors.
3. Spicy Roasted Sweet Potatoes – A perfect side dish to complement your Ranch Style Beans.

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