The Best Southern Style Pinto Beans: A Soulful and Satisfying Dish
Pinto beans are, in my opinion, the most versatile bean out there. They're perfect for dips and take on flavors from various cuisines, like Mexican dishes. However, nothing quite touches my heart like the southern way of cooking them. But you don't have to be from the South to enjoy these delicious beans! In fact, if you want to earn your honorary Southern Card, this is a must-try recipe. Give it a shot, and you'll see why these southern-style pinto beans are a true comfort food favorite.
Choosing the Right Meat: Options for Flavorful Beans
To make southern-style pinto beans the true southern way, you need good smoked meat or a nice ham bone. The saltiness combined with the natural sweetness of the beans makes this recipe special. Growing up, we often used smoked ham hocks or a leftover ham bone from holidays or special occasions. The bone always had a little meat left on it, which added even more flavor. Back then, my mom often bought picnic hams because they were affordable. Whether it was smoked or country ham, it always turned out great. If you're using country ham, you might want to omit the salt from the recipe, as it's already quite salty. Nowadays, many people use smoked turkey, which is a perfectly good substitution that still delivers that classic southern flavor.
Make sure to check the date on your beans, as older beans can remain firm even after hours of cooking—trust me, I've learned this the hard way. You can also cook this dish in a slow cooker, though the texture might change slightly. Either way, it's still delicious! You don't need a lot of ingredients for this recipe; the beauty of true southern cooking lies in using fewer ingredients while maximizing flavor. This simplicity allows the beans to shine through, making the dish truly special.
Making It Your Own: Substitutions and Pairing Ideas
Remember, you can make this dish your own by using what you have on hand. If you're out of fresh garlic, substitute with garlic powder. No meat? No problem! Just use a nice, flavorful broth. However, for a truly authentic southern experience, try to follow the recipe as closely as possible.
Now, you might be wondering, "What can I eat with this?" As written, this dish can be a meal in itself. For a more traditional pairing, add some cornbread or a biscuit. For a heartier option, serve it with a side of white rice.
This recipe also makes an excellent side dish. Even though it's hearty enough to stand alone, it can be a great addition to a larger southern meal. It pairs well with greens, cabbage, fried chicken, and stewed tomatoes and rice. Invite some friends over for a southern-themed potluck so you don't have to do all the cooking. It's the perfect way to share good food and great company!