Get ready to transform your ordinary beans into a mouthwatering Mexican culinary masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! These Charro Beans aren't just a side dish - they're a journey through authentic Mexican flavors, crafted effortlessly in your Ninja Foodi. Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned pinto beans bursting with the rich essence of cumin, jalapeño, and fresh cilantro, all prepared with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb pinto beans, soaked overnight
- 4 cups water
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 jalapeño, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Begin by soaking the pinto beans in water overnight. This will help soften the beans and reduce cooking time. Drain and rinse the beans before using.
- In your Ninja Foodi, set the pot to the 'Sauté' function. Add a small amount of oil if desired, and allow it to heat up for a minute.
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and chopped jalapeño, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Next, add the diced tomatoes and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Once the vegetables are well combined and fragrant, add the soaked pinto beans to the pot.
- Pour in 4 cups of water and add 1 teaspoon of cumin. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Secure the lid on the Ninja Foodi, ensuring the pressure release valve is in the 'Seal' position.
- Set the Ninja Foodi to 'Pressure Cook' on high for 30 minutes. This will cook the beans thoroughly and infuse them with the flavors of the spices and vegetables.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes, then carefully switch the pressure release valve to 'Vent' to release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and check the beans for tenderness. If they are not soft enough, you can close the lid and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes under pressure.
- Once the beans are cooked to your liking, season with salt to taste and stir in the chopped cilantro for a fresh finish.
- Serve the charro beans warm as a side dish or as a main dish with rice, tortillas, or your favorite Mexican accompaniments.
Tips
- Soaking is crucial: Always soak your pinto beans overnight to ensure even cooking and reduce cooking time.
- Don't skip the sauté step: Sautéing your vegetables first helps develop deeper, more complex flavors.
- Fresh ingredients matter: Use fresh garlic, ripe tomatoes, and crisp cilantro for the best taste.
- Adjust spice levels: Remove jalapeño seeds for less heat, or add more for extra kick.
- Natural pressure release helps: Letting the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes helps beans become more tender.
- Check bean consistency: If beans aren't soft enough after initial cooking, don't hesitate to add extra pressure cooking time.
- Customize your beans: Feel free to add bacon or chorizo for a more traditional charro bean experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 222kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
