Slow Cooker Pinto Beans

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 pound (454g) dried pinto beans
• 4 cups water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 chopped onion
• 2 chopped celery stalks
• 2 chopped carrots
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (or more, as per taste preference)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4-6 hours (slow cooker setting)

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Sort and wash the beans, removing any debris or discolored beans.
2. In a large pot, cover the beans with water and soak for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Drain the beans and add them to the slow cooker along with fresh water, olive oil, bay leaf, salt, and all the chopped vegetables.
4. Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 4-6 hours, or until the beans are tender and creamy.
5. Add the oregano and chili powder towards the end of the cooking time, adjusting the seasoning as per taste preference.
6. Serve hot with cornbread or any desired side dish.

Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming 8 total servings) Calories: 250kcal, Protein: 16g, Carbohydrates: 38g, Fat: 6g, Fiber: 8g (approx.)

Dish Characteristics:

• Rich in flavor and texture, with a creamy mouthfeel from the slow-cooked beans.
• Excellent source of protein and fiber, making it a healthy dish for all ages.
• Can be customized with different seasoning and flavorings to suit different tastes.

User Comments:

1. "This dish was amazing! The beans were so creamy and flavorful." - John Doe
2. "I love the slow-cooked beans texture and the addition of chili powder gave it a great kick." - Jane Smith
3. "This is a great dish for a cold winter evening. The warmth of the beans paired with cornbread was delicious." - Michael Johnson

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Always soak the beans for at least 2 hours before cooking to ensure they cook evenly.
• Use a slow cooker to ensure the beans are cooked slowly and evenly, resulting in a creamy texture.
• Adjust the seasoning as per taste preference, adding more chili powder or oregano for a stronger flavor.