Ingredients and Weight:
- Dry Pinto Beans: 200 grams
- Bacon Bits: 50 grams
- Ground Beef: 150 grams
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Green Bell Pepper: 1, chopped
- Tomato Sauce: 1 cup
- Brown Sugar: 3 tablespoons
- Ketchup: 2 tablespoons
- Salt and Black Pepper: to taste
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 2 hours (includes soaking time)
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Soak the pinto beans in water for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Drain the beans and rinse with water.
- In a large pot, bring the beans and enough water to cover them to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 1 hour.
- While the beans are cooking, prepare the rest of the ingredients.
- In a separate pan, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
- Add the bacon bits, chopped onion, and green bell pepper to the ground beef and cook until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the tomato sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Pour the meat mixture into the pot of beans and stir well. Adjust seasonings if necessary.
- Let the beans continue to cook for another hour or until the beans are tender and the sauce is thickened.
Nutritional Information:
(Per serving - based on assumed ingredient quantities and cooking methods)
Calories: 420kcal
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Protein: 28g
Fiber: 8g (approx.)
Dish Characteristics:
- Rich and hearty dish with a southwestern flavor.
- A perfect combination of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors.
- The beans are cooked to perfection, tender and creamy.
- The meat mixture adds a rich and savory element to the dish.
User Comments:
- "This dish was amazing! The combination of flavors was spot on." - John Doe, New York, USA
- "The beans were cooked to perfection and the meat mixture added a great contrast in flavor." - Jane Smith, San Francisco, USA
- "A great dish for a family meal! My kids loved it too." - Michael Johnson, Chicago, USA
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Soaking the beans is essential for proper cooking and texture. Ensure to soak them for at least 2 hours or overnight if possible.
- Adjust seasoning according to personal preference. Add more brown sugar or salt if needed for a sweeter or saltier taste respectively.