Saturday, September 3, 2011

Cooking Pinto Beans on the Stove

Pinto beans do make a healthy yet very flavorful dish! They have been a popular choice in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine for many years. This is because they are inexpensive, simple to cook, and versatile. Additionally, pinto beans are an excellent source of protein, fiber, B vitamins, and complex carbohydrates. Pinto beans are also full of beneficial minerals including iron, magnesium, calcium, and zinc.

There are two basic methods for cooking pinto beans on the stove. First, you must sort and wash the beans, then you can choose the fast or slow method for cooking. Sorting the beans assures that there are no pieces of rocks or other unwanted materials. Broken and discolored beans are not harmful, but many prefer to remove those as well. The easiest method is to sit at a table with the beans spread out. With a bowl in your lap, slowly move the beans to the edge of the table, picking out any unwanted items. Then slide the beans into the bowl. Use a colander for washing the beans. Rinse with water while moving the beans with one hand to assure they're clean and free of dirt particles.