Ranch style beans are a staple in many parts of the United States, particularly in the Southern and Western regions. These delicious, comforting beans are a perfect side dish for any meal, whether it’s a family dinner, a barbecue, or a potluck. In this article, we’ll take you through the process of cooking ranch style beans from scratch, including the ingredients, equipment, and techniques you’ll need to get started.
What are Ranch Style Beans?
Ranch style beans are a type of bean dish that originated in the United States. They are typically made with pinto beans, which are cooked in a flavorful broth with a variety of spices and ingredients. The dish is often associated with ranches and cowboy cuisine, hence the name. Ranch style beans are known for their rich, slightly sweet flavor and their thick, saucy texture.
Ingredients and Equipment
To make ranch style beans, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound dried pinto beans
- 1 pound smoked bacon or salt pork
- 1 large onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
You’ll also need the following equipment:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Colander or strainer
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Choosing the Right Beans
When it comes to making ranch style beans, the type of bean you use is crucial. Pinto beans are the traditional choice, and for good reason. They have a mild flavor and a soft, creamy texture that holds up well to long cooking times. You can also use other types of beans, such as kidney beans or black beans, but pinto beans are the most authentic choice.
Preparing the Beans
Before you can start cooking your ranch style beans, you’ll need to prepare the dried pinto beans. This involves sorting, rinsing, and soaking the beans.
Sorting and Rinsing the Beans
To sort the beans, spread them out on a cutting board or other flat surface. Remove any debris, such as rocks or sticks, and pick out any broken or discolored beans. Rinse the beans in a fine mesh strainer under cold running water.
Soaking the Beans
To soak the beans, place them in a large pot or bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak for at least 8 hours, or overnight. After the soaking time has passed, drain and rinse the beans again.
Cooking the Beans
Now that your beans are prepared, it’s time to start cooking them. This involves browning the bacon, sautéing the onion and garlic, and adding the spices and broth.
Browning the Bacon
To brown the bacon, cut it into small pieces and cook it in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. Remove the bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
Sautéing the Onion and Garlic
To sauté the onion and garlic, add them to the pot with the bacon drippings. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Adding the Spices and Broth
To add the spices and broth, stir in the cumin, chili powder, and oregano. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the spices are fragrant. Then, add the beef broth, water, tomato paste, and brown sugar. Stir to combine, then add the soaked and drained pinto beans.
Simmering the Beans
Now that all the ingredients are in the pot, it’s time to simmer the beans. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 6-8 hours, or until the beans are tender.
Adding the Bacon and Seasoning
After the beans have simmered for 6-8 hours, add the browned bacon back into the pot. Season the beans with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving the Beans
Ranch style beans are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:
- Serve the beans as a side dish, accompanied by cornbread, salad, or other traditional ranch fare.
- Use the beans as a topping for tacos or baked potatoes.
- Add the beans to a hearty stew or chili.
- Serve the beans as a main dish, accompanied by crusty bread or over rice.
Storing and Reheating the Beans
If you don’t plan to serve the beans immediately, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 6 months. To reheat the beans, simply simmer them over low heat until they’re warmed through.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you make the best ranch style beans ever:
- Use high-quality ingredients, such as smoked bacon and fresh spices, to give your beans the best flavor.
- Experiment with different types of beans, such as kidney beans or black beans, to change up the flavor and texture.
- Add other ingredients, such as diced bell peppers or chopped fresh cilantro, to give your beans extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use a slow cooker or Instant Pot to cook the beans, if you prefer a hands-off approach.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making ranch style beans:
- Not soaking the beans long enough, which can result in tough, undercooked beans.
- Not browning the bacon enough, which can result in a lack of flavor.
- Not simmering the beans long enough, which can result in undercooked or tough beans.
By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can make delicious, authentic ranch style beans that will impress your family and friends.
What are Ranch Style Beans?
Ranch Style Beans are a type of bean dish that originated in the southern United States. They are typically made with pinto beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, and are often served as a side dish or used as an ingredient in other recipes. The dish is known for its rich, slightly sweet flavor and its thick, saucy texture.
Ranch Style Beans are often associated with traditional Texas cuisine, and are a staple at many barbecue joints and family gatherings. They are also a popular ingredient in many recipes, including chili, stews, and casseroles. Whether you’re a native Texan or just a fan of good food, Ranch Style Beans are definitely worth trying.
What is the difference between Ranch Style Beans and Baked Beans?
Ranch Style Beans and Baked Beans are two popular types of bean dishes that are often confused with one another. While both dishes are made with beans and have a sweet, saucy flavor, they are actually quite different. The main difference between the two is the type of beans used: Ranch Style Beans are made with pinto beans, while Baked Beans are made with navy beans.
Another key difference between the two dishes is the flavor profile. Ranch Style Beans have a more robust, slightly spicy flavor, while Baked Beans are sweeter and more tomato-forward. Additionally, Ranch Style Beans are often made with a blend of spices and seasonings, while Baked Beans are typically made with a simpler mixture of tomato sauce, brown sugar, and spices.
How do I make Ranch Style Beans from scratch?
Making Ranch Style Beans from scratch is a relatively simple process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills. To start, you’ll need to soak a pound of dried pinto beans overnight, then drain and rinse them the next day. Next, you’ll need to sauté some onions, garlic, and bell peppers in a large pot, then add in the beans, diced tomatoes, and a blend of spices.
Once the ingredients are combined, you’ll need to simmer the mixture over low heat for several hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened. You can also make Ranch Style Beans in a slow cooker or Instant Pot, which can save time and effort. Regardless of the method you choose, the key is to cook the beans slowly and patiently, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
Can I use canned beans to make Ranch Style Beans?
While it’s possible to make Ranch Style Beans using canned beans, the result may not be as flavorful or textured as beans made from scratch. Canned beans are often softer and more prone to breaking apart than cooked dried beans, which can affect the overall texture of the dish. Additionally, canned beans may contain added salt or preservatives that can alter the flavor of the dish.
That being said, if you’re short on time or prefer the convenience of canned beans, you can still make a delicious batch of Ranch Style Beans. Just be sure to drain and rinse the beans thoroughly before using them, and adjust the amount of seasoning and spices accordingly. You may also want to add some extra liquid to the pot to help the beans cook and the sauce thicken.
How do I store and reheat Ranch Style Beans?
Ranch Style Beans can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, or frozen for up to six months. To store the beans, simply cool them to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to reheat the beans, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat them over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
You can also reheat Ranch Style Beans in the microwave or oven, although this may affect the texture and flavor of the dish. To reheat the beans in the microwave, simply transfer them to a microwave-safe container, cover with a paper towel, and heat on high for 30-60 seconds, stirring every 30 seconds until warmed through. To reheat the beans in the oven, transfer them to a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat at 250°F (120°C) for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Can I customize Ranch Style Beans to suit my taste preferences?
One of the best things about Ranch Style Beans is that they can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you like your beans spicy or mild, sweet or savory, there are countless ways to modify the recipe to suit your tastes. Some popular variations include adding diced jalapenos or serrano peppers for extra heat, using different types of tomatoes or beans, or adding a splash of vinegar or Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.
You can also experiment with different spices and seasonings to give the beans a unique flavor profile. Some popular options include cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and ground coriander. Regardless of the modifications you make, the key is to taste and adjust as you go, adding more seasoning or spices until the beans taste just right.
Are Ranch Style Beans a healthy food option?
Ranch Style Beans are a nutritious and relatively healthy food option, especially when made from scratch using dried beans and minimal added salt or sugar. Beans are a rich source of protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans. They are also low in fat and calories, and are a good source of essential vitamins and minerals like folate, iron, and potassium.
That being said, some commercial versions of Ranch Style Beans may contain added salt, sugar, or preservatives that can affect their nutritional value. Additionally, the dish can be high in sodium, especially if you’re using canned beans or adding a lot of salt or soy sauce. To make a healthier version of Ranch Style Beans, be sure to use low-sodium ingredients, limit your use of added salt and sugar, and choose beans that are low in sodium and rich in fiber and nutrients.