Ingredients and Weight:
- 200g dried pinto beans
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 ham hocks or 100g ham, cubed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Freshly chopped herbs (optional) for serving
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes (includes soaking beans)
- Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (slow cooker) or 2 hours (stove top)
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty due to long cooking time)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Soak the pinto beans in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- Drain and rinse the beans.
- In a large pot or slow cooker, heat the olive oil and add the chopped onions. Saute until softened.
- Add the garlic and ham cubes, and cook for a few minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the chili powder and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the soaked beans and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 2-4 hours, depending on your preferred texture of the beans.
- Serve with freshly chopped herbs on top (optional).
Nutritional Information: (Per serving, assuming no additional salt is added)
Calories: Approx. 300-400 (depending on the amount of ham used)
Protein: 18-20g
Fat: 10-15g (most of it from healthy fats)
Carbohydrates: 35-45g
Fiber: 8-10g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on the specific ingredients used.)
Dish Characteristics:
- Rich and hearty, perfect for colder weather.
- Full of flavor from the combination of beans, ham, and spices.
- Slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in creamy and tender beans.
User Comments:
- "This dish was a hit! The combination of flavors was spot on." - John Doe, New York
- "I loved the slow-cooked beans, they were so creamy and delicious." - Jane Smith, Texas
- "This is a perfect dish for a colder day, my family loved it!" - Michael Johnson, California
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Soaking the beans overnight is crucial for reducing cooking time and ensuring tender beans.
- If using a slow cooker, ensure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for timing and temperature settings.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your preference, adding more chili powder or oregano for a stronger flavor.
