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Dry Pinto Beans
Legumes
Nutri-ScoreA

Dry Pinto Beans

Phaseolus vulgaris

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Dry Pinto Beans provides 347 kcal, 21.4g of protein, 62.4g of carbohydrates, and 9g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Dry pinto beans are a nutrient-dense legume, rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. They are commonly used in various cuisines and are known for their creamy texture when cooked.

Also known as:
Pinto BeansCommon Beans
Scientific NamePhaseolus vulgaris
Region of OriginMexico

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories347 kcal
Water
10%
Fiber9g
Total84.6g
Protein
21.4g(25%)
Fats
0.8g(1%)
Carbohydrates
62.4g(74%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (5%)
Folate130 mcg (33%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Iron2.9 mg (16%)
Magnesium50 mg (12%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

High in protein, dry pinto beans provide a plant-based source of essential amino acids, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans.
Rich in dietary fiber, they support digestive health and help regulate blood sugar levels, contributing to overall metabolic health.
Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including folate and iron, they play a crucial role in energy production and red blood cell formation.
Low in fat and with a low glycemic index, they are beneficial for weight management and can help maintain stable energy levels.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Consumption of undercooked beans can lead to foodborne illness due to the presence of lectins, which are toxic in high amounts.
!Some individuals may experience digestive discomfort or gas due to the oligosaccharides present in beans.

How to Prepare & Consume

Soak beans overnight to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. Cook thoroughly until soft, and consider adding spices to enhance flavor.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose dry pinto beans that are uniform in color and free from cracks or blemishes. Avoid beans with a dull appearance, as they may be old.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Keep away from moisture and sunlight to prevent spoilage.

Myths vs Realities

MythMyth: Beans cause weight gain.
RealityReality: Beans are low in calories and high in fiber, which can aid in weight management.
MythMyth: You can't eat beans if you have digestive issues.
RealityReality: While beans can cause gas, proper soaking and cooking can minimize these effects.
MythMyth: All beans are the same nutritionally.
RealityReality: Different beans have varying nutrient profiles; pinto beans are particularly high in fiber and protein.

Healthy Recipes

Spicy Pinto Bean and Quinoa Salad

A vibrant salad packed with protein and fiber, featuring spicy pinto beans and nutty quinoa, perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup dry pinto beans, soaked overnight
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook the soaked pinto beans in boiling water until tender, about 1 hour, then drain.
  2. 2. In a separate pot, cook quinoa according to package instructions.
  3. 3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pinto beans, quinoa, bell pepper, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice, then season with salt and pepper.

Pinto Bean and Sweet Potato Tacos

These delicious tacos combine creamy pinto beans and roasted sweet potatoes, topped with fresh avocado and cilantro for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup dry pinto beans, soaked and cooked
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, cubed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, and salt, then roast for 25 minutes until tender.
  2. 2. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
  3. 3. Assemble tacos by layering pinto beans, roasted sweet potatoes, avocado, and cilantro on each tortilla.

Pinto Bean and Spinach Soup

A hearty and nutritious soup featuring pinto beans and fresh spinach, perfect for a comforting meal packed with vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup dry pinto beans, soaked and cooked
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  2. 2. Add cooked pinto beans, vegetable broth, and thyme. Simmer for 20 minutes.
  3. 3. Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Pinto Bean Burgers

These hearty pinto bean burgers are a delicious plant-based alternative, packed with flavor and perfect for grilling.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup dry pinto beans, soaked and cooked
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Whole grain buns
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mash the cooked pinto beans and mix in breadcrumbs, onion, soy sauce, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Form the mixture into patties and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Grill or pan-fry the patties until golden brown on both sides, then serve on whole grain buns.

Pinto Bean and Avocado Dip

A creamy and nutritious dip made with pinto beans and avocado, perfect for snacking with vegetables or whole grain chips.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup dry pinto beans, soaked and cooked
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, combine cooked pinto beans, avocado, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and salt.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as needed.
  3. 3. Serve with fresh veggies or whole grain chips.

Pinto Bean Chili

A hearty and spicy chili made with pinto beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup dry pinto beans, soaked and cooked
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
  2. 2. Add cooked pinto beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Pinto Bean and Brown Rice Bowl

A wholesome bowl featuring pinto beans and brown rice, topped with fresh veggies and a tangy dressing for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup dry pinto beans, soaked and cooked
  • 1 cup brown rice, cooked
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine cooked pinto beans and brown rice.
  2. 2. Top with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
  3. 3. Drizzle with olive oil and apple cider vinegar, then season with salt and pepper.

Pinto Bean Stuffed Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of pinto beans, rice, and spices, baked to perfection for a healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup dry pinto beans, soaked and cooked
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeds removed
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix cooked pinto beans, rice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the pepper halves with the mixture, place in a baking dish, and top with cheese if using. Bake for 25-30 minutes.

Pinto Bean and Kale Stir-Fry

A quick and nutritious stir-fry featuring pinto beans and kale, packed with flavor and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup dry pinto beans, soaked and cooked
  • 2 cups kale, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add bell pepper and kale, cooking until kale is wilted.
  3. 3. Stir in cooked pinto beans and soy sauce, cooking for an additional 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Pinto Bean and Vegetable Curry

A flavorful and aromatic curry made with pinto beans and a variety of vegetables, served over rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup dry pinto beans, soaked and cooked
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
  2. 2. Add mixed vegetables and curry powder, cooking for 5 minutes.
  3. 3. Stir in cooked pinto beans and coconut milk, simmering for 15 minutes. Season with salt before serving over rice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How should I store dry pinto beans?

Store dry pinto beans in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to a year.

Do I need to soak dry pinto beans before cooking?

Soaking is recommended to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility, but it is not strictly necessary.

Can I eat dry pinto beans raw?

No, dry pinto beans must be cooked thoroughly to eliminate harmful lectins.

What are the health benefits of eating pinto beans?

Pinto beans are high in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, which support heart health, digestion, and blood sugar control.

How long do cooked pinto beans last in the fridge?

Cooked pinto beans can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze cooked pinto beans?

Yes, cooked pinto beans can be frozen for up to 6 months in an airtight container.

What dishes can I make with pinto beans?

Pinto beans are versatile and can be used in chili, soups, salads, and as a side dish.

Are pinto beans gluten-free?

Yes, pinto beans are naturally gluten-free and safe for individuals with gluten intolerance.