Mexican Pinto Bean Soup: Warm and Satisfying Delight

Name: Mexican Pinto Bean Soup: Warm and Satisfying Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 14 oz can fire-roasted tomatoes; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 small carrots, peeled and diced ((150 g)); 1 medium potato, peeled and diced ((135 g)); 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Red pepper flakes (to taste); 2 bay leaves ((optional)); 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 14 oz cans pinto beans, drained and rinsed; Salt and pepper (to taste)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

You’ll love this Mexican Pinto Bean Soup hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy dinner. It’s a quick dish that warms you inside and out, making it a go-to recipe for chilly nights.

Essential Ingredients for Mexican Pinto Bean Soup

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious pot of Mexican Pinto Bean Soup:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
1 (14 oz) can fire-roasted tomatoes
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 small carrots (150 g), peeled and diced
1 medium potato (135 g), peeled and diced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
Red pepper flakes, to taste
2 bay leaves (optional)
2 cups vegetable broth
2 (14 oz) cans pinto beans, drained and rinsed
Salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredients for Mexican Pinto Bean Soup, including pinto beans, carrots, and spices.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly cooked Mexican Pinto Bean Soup:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent.
Incorporate the fire-roasted tomatoes, minced garlic, diced carrots, diced potato, and all spices. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then add the vegetable broth and bay leaves (if using).
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer with the lid on for 10-15 minutes to soften the vegetables. Add the pinto beans and continue cooking for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are tender.
Turn off the heat. Decide on the desired texture; for a chunky stew, leave it as is. For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend part or all of the soup, or transfer half to a blender, puree, and return it to the pot.
Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed. If it’s too thick, add more vegetable broth or water. Serve immediately.

Tips for Adjusting Texture and Flavor

Feel free to customize your Mexican Pinto Bean Soup:

For a creamier texture, consider adding extra oil or plant-based cream.
If you prefer a spicier soup, adjust the heat by adding ancho chili powder or your favorite spices.
To save time, microwave the carrots and potatoes with a little water for 1-2 minutes to soften before adding them to the soup.

Serving Suggestions for Your Soup

This soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving it with:

Warm corn tortillas
Fresh avocado slices
Crisp tortilla chips for added crunch

Storage Tips for Leftovers

Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Remember, the soup may thicken when chilled, so simply add water or broth when reheating. For longer storage, it’s freezer-friendly, though not tested.

Variations to Try with This Recipe

Feel free to mix things up! Other beans can be substituted, but keep in mind this will alter both flavor and texture. You might also enjoy:

What to Cook Next

If you are looking for more comforting soups, consider trying one of these delightful recipes for your next dinner:

FAQs About Mexican Pinto Bean Soup

What are some common mistakes in bean soup?

Some common mistakes include not soaking the beans long enough, overcooking the soup, or skimping on seasoning.

How long is bean soup safe to eat?

Bean soup is safe to eat for 3-4 days when stored in the refrigerator.

What gives pintos the best flavor?

The best flavor for pinto beans comes from a combination of spices such as cumin, paprika, and fresh herbs.

How long do you need to soak beans for bean soup?

You should soak beans for at least 6 hours or overnight to achieve the best texture and reduce cooking time.

Conclusion

This delightful Mexican Pinto Bean Soup is sure to become a favorite in your home. For more inspiration and ideas, check out Elly’s Recipes on Pinterest for tasty recipes and cooking tips to elevate your culinary adventures.