Cowboy beans: the culinary lasso for tender, flavorful beans at your next cookout

In the vast and rugged landscapes of the Wild West, cowboys relied on hearty and nourishing meals to fuel their long days in the saddle. Among their favorite culinary delights was the cowboy bean recipe, a simple yet flavorful dish that has become a timeless staple of Western cuisine.

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried pinto beans, picked over and rinsed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1 cup chopped jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Soak the beans: In a large bowl, cover the beans with cold water and let them soak overnight.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the peppers: Stir in the green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and jalapeño pepper (if using). Cook until the peppers are slightly softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Drain the beans: Drain the beans and add them to the pot.
6. Add the liquids: Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes. Add enough water to cover the beans by about 1 inch.
7. Season the beans: Stir in the oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
8. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Add more water as needed to keep the beans covered.

Serving Suggestions

Cowboy beans are a versatile dish that can be served as a main course, a side dish, or a topping for nachos, tacos, or burritos. Serve with cornbread, tortillas, or a side of rice for a complete meal.

Variations

• Spicy cowboy beans: Add more jalapeño pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian cowboy beans: Omit the ground beef and add an extra cup of beans.
• Slow cooker cowboy beans: Place all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
• Instant Pot cowboy beans: Cook the beans in an Instant Pot according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.

Nutritional Information

Cowboy beans are a good source of protein, fiber, and iron. A serving of 1 cup contains approximately:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 6 grams
• Protein: 15 grams
• Carbohydrates: 40 grams
• Fiber: 10 grams
• Iron: 6 milligrams

History of Cowboy Beans

The origins of cowboy beans can be traced back to the cattle drives of the 19th century. Cowboys would often cook large pots of beans over open fires, using whatever ingredients they could find along the trail. The beans were a hearty and filling meal that helped the cowboys endure the long and arduous days in the saddle.

Cultural Significance of Cowboy Beans

Cowboy beans have become an iconic dish of the American West, symbolizing the rugged and independent spirit of the cowboys who once roamed the vast plains. The dish is often served at rodeos, chuckwagon dinners, and other Western-themed events.

Key Points: A Culinary Legacy from the Wild West

The cowboy bean recipe is a culinary legacy from the Wild West that continues to be enjoyed by people around the world. Whether you’re a cowboy or a city dweller, this hearty and flavorful dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds and transport you to the days of the American frontier.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: How can I make my cowboy beans spicier?
A: Add more jalapeño pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the recipe.
Q: Can I use other types of beans in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use any type of dried beans, such as black beans, kidney beans, or navy beans.
Q: How can I thicken my cowboy beans?
A: Mash some of the beans with a fork or potato masher to create a thickener.
Q: Can I freeze cowboy beans?
A: Yes, cowboy beans can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Q: How long will cowboy beans last in the refrigerator?
A: Cowboy beans will last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.