Santa Maria Style Beans
A classic side from California's Central Coast barbecue tradition. Tender pinquito beans slow-simmered with bacon, ham hock, and a savory, tangy, and slightly sweet tomato broth. The perfect partner for grilled tri-tip.
For 8 servings
5 steps. 180 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Beans (Overnight)
- b.Rinse the dry pinquito beans under cold water, removing any stones or debris.
- c.Place the beans in a large bowl and cover with at least 3 inches of cold water.
- d.Allow the beans to soak for a minimum of 8 hours, or preferably overnight. This step is crucial for achieving a creamy texture.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Build the Flavor Base (15-20 minutes)
- b.In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crisp, which should take about 8-10 minutes.
- c.Using a slotted spoon, transfer the crispy bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- d.Add the diced onion to the bacon fat and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- e.Stir in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Combine Ingredients and Simmer (2.5 hours)
- b.Drain the soaked beans thoroughly and add them to the pot with the onions and garlic.
- c.Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato paste, beef broth, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ancho chili powder, and dry mustard powder.
- d.Nestle the smoked ham hock into the mixture, ensuring it's mostly submerged.
- e.Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to the lowest setting that maintains a gentle simmer.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Slow Cook to Perfection (Continued)
- b.Cover the pot and let the beans simmer gently for 2.5 to 3 hours. The goal is for the beans to become completely tender and creamy.
- c.Stir every 30-45 minutes to prevent sticking. If the liquid level gets too low and the beans look dry, add a splash of beef broth or hot water.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Finish and Season (15 minutes)
- b.Once the beans are tender, carefully remove the ham hock. Let it cool slightly, then shred any meat from the bone and return the meat to the pot. Discard the bone and skin.
- c.Stir in the salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- d.Add the reserved crispy bacon back into the pot.
- e.Simmer uncovered for another 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken to your desired consistency.
- f.Serve hot alongside your favorite grilled meats.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic flavor, seek out pinquito beans, but pinto beans are an excellent and widely available substitute.
- 2Don't rush the cooking process. A long, slow simmer is the secret to developing deep, complex flavors and incredibly tender beans.
- 3To naturally thicken the sauce, mash about a half cup of the cooked beans against the side of the pot with a spoon and stir them back in.
- 4These beans taste even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. They are perfect for making ahead.
- 5Wait to add the salt until the end of the cooking process. Adding it too early can sometimes result in tougher beans.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Version
Add one or two minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce along with the garlic for a smoky heat. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Vegetarian/Vegan VersionVegetarian/Vegan Version
Omit the bacon and ham hock. Sauté the onion in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor.
Quick Version (Instant Pot)Quick Version (Instant Pot)
Use the 'Sauté' function for the bacon and aromatics. Add the remaining ingredients (including unsoaked beans), secure the lid, and cook on High Pressure for 45-50 minutes. Allow for a 15-minute natural pressure release before quick releasing the rest.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Fiber
Beans are packed with dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health, promoting regular bowel movements, and feeding beneficial gut bacteria.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
This dish provides a significant amount of protein from the beans, which is crucial for building and repairing tissues, making enzymes, and supporting overall body function.
Provides Sustained Energy
The complex carbohydrates in beans are digested slowly, providing a steady release of energy that helps maintain stable blood sugar levels and keeps you feeling full longer.
Loaded with Minerals
Beans are a good source of essential minerals like iron, which is vital for oxygen transport, and magnesium, which plays a role in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body.
Frequently asked questions
A one-cup serving of Santa Maria Style Beans contains approximately 380-420 calories, depending on the amount of bacon and ham hock used. It's a hearty side dish packed with energy.