why make this recipe
Santa Maria Style Pinquito Beans are a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and hearty dish. These beans have a unique flavor that pairs well with many types of cuisine. They are easy to prepare and make a perfect side dish for barbecues, family dinners, or gatherings. Plus, making your own beans from scratch is both satisfying and healthier than canned options.
how to make Santa Maria Style Pinquito Beans
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried pinquito beans
- 6 cups water
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
Directions
- Rinse the pinquito beans and soak them overnight in water.
- Drain and rinse the beans. In a large pot, combine the beans and 6 cups of water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour until beans are tender.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until onions are translucent.
- Stir in salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and bay leaf.
- Add the sautéed mixture to the beans and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes.
- Serve warm as a side dish.
how to serve Santa Maria Style Pinquito Beans
Santa Maria Style Pinquito Beans can be served warm as a side dish. They complement grilled meats, barbecues, and can be served alongside rice or tortillas. You can also use them as a filling for burritos or tacos.
how to store Santa Maria Style Pinquito Beans
To store leftover pinquito beans, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the beans for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
tips to make Santa Maria Style Pinquito Beans
- Ensure the beans are soaked overnight; this helps them cook faster and makes them more tender.
- Adjust the spices to suit your taste. If you like things spicier, consider adding some chili powder or jalapeño.
- For an even richer flavor, you can add some diced bell peppers or tomatoes to the sautéed mixture.
variation
You can add cooked bacon or chorizo to the beans for an extra smoky flavor. Another variation is to serve the beans with cilantro on top for a fresh taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I use canned pinquito beans instead of dried?
A: Yes, if you use canned beans, simply skip the soaking and cooking steps. Rinse and heat them in the skillet with the onion and spices.
Q: How do I know when the beans are done cooking?
A: The beans are done when they are soft and tender. You can taste them to check for doneness.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the beans a day or two in advance. Just reheat them on the stove when you’re ready to serve.

Santa Maria Style Pinquito Beans
Ingredients
Beans Preparation
- 2 cups dried pinquito beans Ensure beans are soaked overnight.
- 6 cups water
Flavoring Ingredients
- 1 medium onion, chopped Can substitute with yellow onion.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adjust to taste.
- 1 teaspoon salt Adjust based on preference.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the pinquito beans and soak them overnight in water.
- Drain and rinse the beans. In a large pot, combine the beans and 6 cups of water.
Cooking
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour until beans are tender.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until onions are translucent.
- Stir in salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and bay leaf.
- Add the sautéed mixture to the beans and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes.
- Serve warm as a side dish.
