Go Back
–+ servings
Easy Chipotle Mexican Grill Pinto Beans Recipe

Chipotle Mexican Grill Pinto Beans Recipe

Ann Jones
If you’re anything like me, you can appreciate a hearty meal that brings warmth and flavor to the table. Pinto beans, in particular, are a star ingredient at Chipotle Mexican Grill, and let me tell you, they make for an unforgettable dish. 
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 5 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 16 Servings
Calories 101 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot

Ingredients
  

  • 16 ounces dried pinto beans rinsed, picked over, and soaked overnight
  • 6 cups filtered water
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil or rice bran oil
  • 1 medium golden onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 2 chipotle chilies in adobo plus 2 teaspoons of smoky adobo sauce
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Now that we have everything ready, let’s get cooking! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create your own Chipotle-style pinto beans.

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

  • Start by rinsing the dried pinto beans under cold water. It’s essential to remove any debris. Then, soak the beans overnight in a large bowl with plenty of water. This process helps soften them, making them easier to cook.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

  • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, stirring occasionally. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once the onion is ready, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

  • Now it’s time for the magic. Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic. Toss in the chipotle chilies with their adobo sauce, ground cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, coriander, and the bay leaf. Give everything a good stir.

Step 4: Add Water and Simmer

  • Pour in the 6 cups of filtered water. This will be the base for your beans. Raise the heat until it starts to boil. Then reduce it to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and let everything bubble away for about 1½ to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.

Step 5: Season and Add Citrus

  • Once the beans have softened, discard the bay leaf. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lime juice. This step adds a delightful zing to the dish. Season with sea salt and cracked black pepper to taste. Adjust the flavors based on your preferences.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

  • Your pinto beans are now ready! Serve them warm, either as a base in a burrito bowl, as a filling for tacos, or as a side dish. Add your favorite toppings, such as cilantro, cheese, or avocado, for extra flavor.

Notes

  • Dried Pinto Beans: These beans become incredibly creamy when cooked right. If you feel adventurous, you can try using other types of beans as well.
  • Olive Oil: This healthy fat adds a rich flavor and helps in cooking the onions. You can use any oil you prefer.
  • Chipotle Chilies in Adobo: These chilies bring the heat and smokiness that are characteristic of Chipotle’s pinto beans. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.
  • Fresh Citrus: Lemon and lime juice brighten up the entire dish. They balance the richness of the beans beautifully.

Nutrition

Serving: 159gCalories: 101kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 8gFat: 6.7gCholesterol: 26mgSodium: 28mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1g
Keyword Chipotle Mexican Grill Pinto Beans Recipe
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!