Pinto beans are a type of bean that is often used in various traditional dishes, especially in Central and South America. Although not as popular as black beans or kidney beans in Indonesia, pinto beans have many benefits and delights that we may not know about. Let's explore together what pinto beans are, their content and health benefits.
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Pinto beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) are a type of bean that originated in Latin America, and are very popular in Mexican cuisine as well as the United States. The name “pinto” comes from the Spanish word for “speckled,” as these beans have a brown and cream speckled pattern when raw, but turn a solid brown color once cooked. They have a soft texture and a mild, slightly creamy flavor. In some countries, pinto beans are known by different names, such as “frijoles pintos” in Mexico or “speckled beans” in the United States.
Pinto beans are oval-shaped and rather large compared to black or red beans. Their mild flavor makes them suitable for a variety of dishes. Compared to other beans, pinto beans tend to crumble more easily when cooked, so they are often used for dishes that require a smooth texture.
Launching from Healthline.com Pinto beans mostly contain carbohydrates, fiber, and protein. They also contain many vitamins and minerals. One cup (171 grams) of pinto beans boiled with salt provides the following content:
Pinto beans are rich in nutrients that are good for health, so they have a variety of good benefits as well. Here are the health benefits of pinto beans.
Pinto beans are rich in soluble fiber, which is a type of fiber that can bind to cholesterol in the digestive tract and help remove it from the body. By consuming pinto beans regularly, bad cholesterol (LDL) levels in the blood can be reduced, which in turn helps lower the risk of heart disease.
The glycemic index of pinto beans is low, which means they do not cause a drastic spike in blood sugar after consumption. The high fiber content in pinto beans also helps slow the absorption of sugar, making them suitable for diabetics or those who want to keep blood sugar levels stable.
The fiber in pinto beans not only helps control cholesterol and blood sugar levels, but also supports digestive health. The soluble and insoluble fibers in pinto beans help facilitate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and maintain a healthy balance of gut microbiota.
Pinto beans contain vitamin B1 (thiamine) and iron, which are essential in energy production. Thiamine plays a role in carbohydrate metabolism and helps convert food into energy that can be used by the body. Meanwhile, iron is important in the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.
Pinto beans are low in fat and high in fiber, making you feel fuller for longer. This helps control appetite and reduces the urge to snack on high-calorie foods. As such, pinto beans can be part of a diet that supports weight loss or management.
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These are some of the health benefits of pinto beans, from keeping your heart healthy to aiding digestion and regulating blood sugar levels. These beans are also suitable for various diets, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, and are easily combined with various dishes.
For Peekay Pals who want to experience the benefits of pinto beans without the hassle of cooking them, La Costena Whole Pinto Beans are a practical choice. These pinto beans have been cooked and seasoned to perfection, and are packaged in cans so they are ready to serve.
La Costena Whole Pinto Beans can be served as a side dish, used in traditional dishes like bean soup, salads, or even in signature dishes like chilli con carne. Their soft texture and savory taste make them versatile and delicious for many types of cooking. For complete information, Peekay friends can check here, or contact WhatsApp PRB Care.