Main Course
Zesty Slow Cooker Pinto Beans
These slow cooker pinto beans are packed with bright, zesty flavors that make a comforting and easy meal. Perfect for busy days, they require minimal prep and deliver hearty, satisfying taste every time.
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10 hr 25 min
Total Time
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4
Servings
▥
Hard
Difficulty
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Ingredients
4
servings
Instructions
1
Step 1
Start by putting the pinto beans in your slow cooker and cover them with water. Let them soak for about 3 to 4 hours. While the beans are soaking, blend the jalapeno peppers and garlic in a food processor until you get a smooth paste. Once the beans have soaked, drain them and put them back into the slow cooker. Stir in the jalapeno-garlic paste, then tuck the ham hocks into the beans. Sprinkle the onion chunks, salt, cayenne, pepper, and paprika over everything. Lay the bacon and green chiles on top. Cover the slow cooker and cook everything on low for about 10 hours. When it’s done, take out the ham hocks and let them cool just enough to handle. Shred the meat and stir it back into the beans along with any rendered fat to make the beans nice and creamy. You can either turn off the cooker or keep it warm until you’re ready to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These beans are packed with flavor and require very little effort. The slow cooker does all the work, making it perfect for busy days. Plus, they are hearty, nutritious, and budget-friendly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beans over steamed rice or alongside cornbread for a comforting meal. They also work great as a filling for tacos or burritos. Add fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a bright finish.
Storage Tips
Let the beans cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
