Which to Choose: Pinto or Black Beans?
As we all know, Mexican food often involves beans of some sort, and it’s usually a question or pinto or black beans. After all, beans can help with cholesterol and heart health. Everyone has their preference, but is there a true reigning option? Is there really a difference between pinto or black beans? Let’s find out.
Where Do They Come From?
Both pinto and black beans come from leguminous plants.
Pinto beans are speculated to have been around since 3000 BC. Though they originated from Brazil and Peru, migrating indigenous tribes eventually took them up north to the Mid-West in the U.S.
Black beans, also known as turtle beans, originated from Central and South America but were transported to Europe by Spanish explorers in the 15th century. Black beans eventually make their way to Asia via the Silk Road.
Pinto or Black Beans in Cooking
Both beans can be used in a variety of dishes due to their versatility. They take about the same amount of time to cook, and they can add flavor and bulk to any meal. Though the beans have specific uses, they can be paired with one another.
Pinto beans are primarily used in Mexican and Southwestern food. You can find them in spreads, dips, burritos, wraps, tacos and quesadillas. The most popular form of pinto beans is refried beans.
Black beans, on the other hand, are mostly used in Latin American, Caribbean, Creole and Cajun food. Due to their hardy texture, they are used in soups, dips, salads, chili and gumbo.
Taste, Texture and Color
While both beans are delicious and nutritional, there are some key differences between the two.
Pinto beans are larger, softer and creamier than black beans. Pinto beans are usually light brown with spots; in fact, “pinto” is Spanish for “painted,” as this bean has a painted appearance. When cooked, this bean turns pinkish in color. Pinto beans often take on the flavors of the ingredients they are paired with, but they have a nuttier taste.
Black beans are oval-shaped, smaller, firmer and sturdier. They can stand high temperatures and resist moisture better so they don’t get mushy. As their name implies, black beans are black with white interiors, and the color doesn’t change when they are cooked. Black beans have a dense, rich, hearty flavor.
Nutritional Value in Pinto and Black Beans
Pinto and black beans are extremely similar in their nutritional values. They both offer protein, fiber, calories, iron, vitamin B1 and more.
However, pinto beans have slightly more calories, carbs, fiber and fat content.
Both are also low in purines, which is a naturally occurring chemical that can lead to gout and kidney stones.
Benny’s Tacos
At the end of the day, choosing between pinto beans or black beans comes down to personal preference, as they are so close to one another. No matter which one you choose, come by Benny’s Tacos & Rotisserie Chicken.
We incorporate both beans in our dishes, so you won’t be disappointed. Order your delicious food today!
FAQs
At the end of the day, choosing between pinto beans or black beans comes down to personal preference, as they are so close to one another. No matter which one you choose, come by Benny's Tacos & Rotisserie Chicken. We incorporate both beans in our dishes, so you won't be disappointed.
Are black or pinto beans better for a burrito? ›
When it comes to taste, black beans tend to have a richer, more robust flavor than pinto beans. If you're looking for a heartier burrito, black beans may be the best way to go. Texture-wise, black beans are slightly firmer than pinto beans.
Do pinto beans taste better than black? ›
Black beans have a more robust, heartier texture and a dense, rich flavor. They could be described as almost lightly crunchy or grainy in consistency. Pinto beans are creamy and earthier. Pinto beans are creamier and softer than black beans and have a nuttier, earthier, more rounded flavor.
Are charro beans and black beans the same? ›
So “charro beans” are beans cooked as a charro would prepare them. The dish most typically features pinto beans, though black beans are a common substitute. We prefer black beans because we like their color and their depth of flavor.
What beans do Mexicans use most? ›
Pinto beans are one of the most common types of beans and considered to be one of the most popular for northwestern Mexico and the United States. In fact, its scientific name, Phaseolus vulgaris, literally means “common bean.”
Are black beans better than pinto beans for tacos? ›
They both offer protein, fiber, calories, iron, vitamin B1 and more. However, pinto beans have slightly more calories, carbs, fiber and fat content. Both are also low in purines, which is a naturally occurring chemical that can lead to gout and kidney stones.
What are the best beans for burritos? ›
Beans – the two most common types of beans used for burritos are black beans and pinto beans, specifically refried pinto beans.
What kind of beans are served in Mexican restaurants? ›
The pinto bean is perhaps one of the most common type of beans used in most Mexican dishes. Like the black bean, the pinto bean is also loaded with nutritious elements including high fiber and protein. Pinto beans are served both whole and mashed, which will become the refried bean.
Why do Mexicans eat black beans? ›
In Mexico, black beans usually go with every kind of dish, may it be rice, meat or vegetable, due to their sweet taste that perfectly contrasts with the chili pepper's spiciness.
What do chipotle black beans taste like? ›
These Chipotle Garlic Black Beans are spicy, smoky, and tasty — just how I like 'em!
Black beans retain their black appearance when cooked while Pintos turn pinkish. Either bean works well in many of the same dishes, such as tostadas, soups, chilis, and burritos. So, in the end, the difference really does come down to preference.
Why are pinto beans so popular? ›
Pintos contain the most fiber of all beans and are the most popular bean consumed in the United States. They are a favorite in the American West; in fact, Dove Creek, CO, claims that it's the Pinto Bean Capital of the World!
Do Mexicans eat beans everyday? ›
One of the most common ingredients in the Mexican kitchen has to be beans. We eat beans every day, and often, more than once a day. Beans make an appearance at the breakfast, lunch or dinner table, whether as a side dish or the main event.
Are pinto or black beans easier to digest? ›
Smaller beans like adzuki, lentils, mung beans and peas digest more easily. Pinto, kidney, navy, black-eyed peas, garbanzo, lima, and black beans are harder to digest and should be eaten only occasionally. Soybeans and black soybeans are the most difficult beans to digest.
Is a black bean burrito good for you? ›
Freezer-friendly black bean burritos are a perfect meal prep, and a delicious way to clean out your fridge! They're filled with fiber & protein, and can be made vegan if desired.
Can I use pinto beans instead of black beans? ›
3. Pinto Beans. Pinto beans are a great substitute for black beans, especially in Mexican dishes. Pinto beans are slightly creamier than black beans and have a more earthy flavor, but they can still provide a similar protein-rich base for your dishes.
Should I put beans in my burrito? ›
A classic veggie burrito would include refried pinto beans, red chile sauce, and shredded cheese. Many people like to combine beans with rice and you can add tomatoes, cilantro, or any of your other favorite vegetables and herbs.
