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Pot O' Beans

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This authentic vegan dish provides the perfect foundation for a variety of Mexican-inspired meals. By slow-cooking dried black or pinto beans with charred onions and a blackened jalapeño, you create a deep, smoky flavour profile that shop-bought tinned versions simply cannot match. The gentle simmering process transforms the beans until they reach a beautifully creamy consistency, making them a nutritious and versatile staple for any plant-based kitchen.

Ideal as a high-protein side dish or a filling for homemade tacos, these beans are both economical and comforting. This recipe prioritises simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver a rich, savoury result that pairs perfectly with fresh coriander and lime. For the best texture, ensure your beans are relatively fresh, as older pulses may require a slightly longer cooking time to soften fully.

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Ingredients for Pot O' Beans

  • 3 tablespoons lard or vegetable oil

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 1 jalapeño

  • 1 sprig epazote (optional)

  • 450g dried black beans or pinto beans, rinsed

  • Kosher salt

How to make Pot O' Beans

Heat lard in a large heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until edges are charred, 8–10 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook jalapeño in a small dry skillet over high heat, turning occasionally, until blackened, 8–10 minutes; cut a slit in jalapeño.

Add jalapeño, epazote sprig, if desired, and beans to pot; add water to cover by 2". Simmer, partially covered, until beans are creamy, 2–3 hours (depending on freshness of beans). Season with salt and cook 15 minutes longer; discard epazote.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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