Best Easy Frijoles con Epazote Recipe

Beans slow-cooked with fragrant epazote, the classic Mexican herb that aids digestion. This vegetarian, protein-rich family essential showcases how one herb transforms simple beans into something special.

Cook 180 min Difficulty EASY 230 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean #high protein #diabetic friendly
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • dried pinto beans 2 cups
  • white onion 1 pieces
  • epazote sprigs 4 pieces
  • garlic cloves 3 pieces
  • water 8 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • salt 2 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 37 g 64%
Protein 13 g 22%
Fat 3 g 14%
Serving size 180g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse the dried pinto beans thoroughly under cold water, removing any debris. Place them in a large pot and cover with 8 cups of water.

  2. 2

    Add the whole white onion and garlic cloves to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low and cover.

  3. 3

    Once the beans have simmered for 1 hour, skim any foam from the surface and add the epazote sprigs. Continue simmering on low, maintaining a gentle bubbling.

  4. 4

    After 2 hours, check the beans for tenderness. If they are still firm, continue cooking, stirring occasionally and watching the water level. Add hot water if needed to keep beans submerged.

  5. 5

    When beans are tender and creamy (usually after 3 hours), remove the onion and epazote. Stir in salt and black pepper, allowing flavors to blend for 10 minutes before serving.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
Epazote is the essential herb in Frijoles con Epazote. Its unique, earthy aroma transforms basic beans, making the dish distinctly Mexican and giving it its characteristic flavor and digestive benefit.
Q. Why is slow-simmering important in this recipe?
Slow-simmering helps pinto beans become creamy and tender, prevents them from breaking apart, and allows the flavors of onion, garlic, and epazote to fully infuse the beans. It also ensures even cooking and moisture management.
Q. How can I avoid mushy or undercooked beans when making Frijoles con Epazote?
Maintain a gentle simmer and check frequently for tenderness after 2 hours. Keep beans submerged with water—add more if needed. Remove the onion and epazote only once beans are fully tender but not mushy. This control prevents overcooking.
Q. How many calories and protein does each serving provide?
Each 180 g serving of Frijoles con Epazote contains about 230 kcal and 13 g of protein. The dish is protein-rich and well-balanced for vegetarians, with carbohydrates making up 64% of caloric value and protein 22%.
Q. Is this recipe vegetarian and suitable for high protein diets?
Yes, Frijoles con Epazote is fully vegetarian and each serving offers 13 g of protein, qualifying it for 'vegetarian' and 'high protein' tags. It is also diabetic friendly due to moderate carbs and no refined sugar.
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