Soulful Pinto Beans

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 2 to 3 hours

Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb dried pinto beans

• 1/2 lb salt pork (cut into small chunks or strips)

• 1 medium onion (chopped)

• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)

• 1/2 tsp sugar (optional, helps to balance the flavors)

• 8 cups water (or enough to cover beans by about 2 inches)

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (or butter)

Directions:

1. Rinse and Sort the Beans:
   Place the dried pinto beans in a colander. Rinse them under cold water and remove any stones or debris.

2. Soak the Beans (Optional):
   For faster cooking, you can soak the beans overnight in water. If you’re short on time, skip this step and proceed directly to cooking. Soaking just helps to soften the beans and reduce cooking time.

3. Cook the Salt Pork:
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the salt pork and cook it until it begins to render some of its fat and turns golden brown (about 5–7 minutes). This will give your beans that rich, savory flavor.

4. Add Onions and Garlic:
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the salt pork. Sauté for another 3–5 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.

5. Add the Beans and Water:
   Stir in the rinsed pinto beans. Add enough water to cover the beans by about 2 inches (usually around 8 cups). Bring the mixture to a boil.

6. Season the Beans:
   Stir in the bay leaf, smoked paprika (if using), black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt. Add a pinch of sugar if you like. Stir everything to combine.

7. Simmer:
   Once the pot is boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let the beans simmer gently for about 2 to 3 hours, or until they are tender and creamy. Check occasionally and add more water if needed to keep the beans covered. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

8. Taste and Adjust:
   About 30 minutes before they’re done, taste the beans and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If the beans seem too salty, you can add a bit more water and allow it to simmer off. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

9. Serve:
   Once the beans are tender and flavorful, serve them hot with some cornbread, fried chicken, or collard greens for a true soul food meal.

Notes:

• Salt Pork Tip: If you prefer less salt, you can rinse the salt pork before cooking or soak it for a bit before adding it to the beans.

• Variations: Feel free to add some smoked sausage or ham hocks for extra flavor if you like.