Keto instant pot Pinto Beans

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried pinto beans, rinsed and sorted
• 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional, for added spice)
• Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beans: Rinse and sort the dried pinto beans. Soaking is optional but not necessary when using an Instant Pot. If you prefer soaking, cover beans with water and let sit for 6-8 hours, then drain and rinse.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Set the Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ mode. Heat the olive oil, then add chopped onion and sauté until softened (about 3-4 minutes). Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add Spices: Stir in the cumin powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional 1 minute.
4. Cook the Beans: Add the pinto beans, water (or chicken broth), and bay leaf to the pot. Stir to combine. If you like a bit of heat, add the sliced jalapeño.
5. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to ‘Sealing.’ Cook on high pressure for 35-40 minutes for unsoaked beans, or 25-30 minutes if soaked.
6. Natural Release: Allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure manually.
7. Adjust Seasoning: Open the lid, remove the bay leaf, and taste to adjust seasoning if needed. For a creamier consistency, mash some of the beans with the back of a spoon.
8. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice if desired. Serve in small portions, keeping in mind the carbohydrate content.

Notes:

• Carb Content: Keep portions small to stay within your daily carb limit. Pinto beans are moderately high in carbs, so enjoy them in moderation.
• Customizations: You can add a small amount of cooked bacon or sausage for extra flavor without adding too many carbs.