Description

A hearty, flavorful dish combining tender pinto beans, smoky spices, and classic cornbread for the ultimate comfort food meal. Perfect for a cozy dinner or to impress at a potluck, this combination brings together the richness of seasoned beans with the warmth of homemade cornbread.

Ingredients

• For the Pinto Beans:
• 2 cups dried pinto beans (or 2 (15 oz) cans, rinsed and drained)
• 6 cups water (if using dried beans)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeño, diced (optional, for heat)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled (optional, for smoky flavor)
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
• For the Cornbread:
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar added)
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Preparation Method

1. Prepare pinto beans: Rinse and sort dried beans, cover with water in a pot, boil, then simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until tender. Drain and set aside. For canned beans, heat olive oil, sauté onion, garlic, and jalapeño for 3 to 4 minutes, add diced tomatoes, spices, and beans. Add water if dry, simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, season, and stir in bacon if using.

2. Prepare cornbread: Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a baking dish or skillet. In a bowl, whisk cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter. Combine wet and dry ingredients without overmixing. Pour into the dish and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

3. Assemble and serve: Serve warm pinto beans in bowls with fresh cilantro. Slice cornbread and serve alongside or on top of the beans. Add toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado if desired.

Tips and Conclusion

Customize the beans with your favorite spices or swap jalapeño for milder peppers. You can also make the cornbread ahead of time and reheat it before serving.

Loaded Pinto Beans and Cornbread is the ultimate comfort food, blending savory, smoky flavors with the satisfying texture of cornbread. This dish is not only versatile but also a hearty option for any gathering or a cozy night in. Enjoy it as is or pair it with your favorite toppings for an unforgettable meal!