If you’ve ever dined out at a Mexican restaurant, chances are you’ve encountered several bean-incorporated dishes. From black to pinto, beans are a distinctly delicious component of most Mexican foods. The guide below outlines the history, species, and common uses of these legumes in Latin American meals.

A Guide to Beans in Mexican Cuisine

History

Most bean plants are indigenous to Mexico, which includes approximately 55 species. They’ve been the staple food of these native people for thousands of years, serving as one of their main sources of protein. These legumes were so valuable that Aztec and Incan empires used them to pay tribute and as goods to the king that acted as tax. When Spaniards arrived in the New World, beans were among the host of exotic, edible plants they harvested and incorporated in their cuisines.

Bean Species

The prime types of beans you’ll find in burritos and chilaquiles are black and pinto. These legumes usually grow 18 to 24 inches in height and average 22% protein in their seeds. They grow well in low moisture, drained soil, and plenty of sunlight and heat. Black beans have a pronounced earthy texture and are rich and creamy when cooked. Pintos are beige and spotted in color and nuttier in taste. 

Bean Dishes

Pintos are typically boiled and mashed to make a bowl of refried beans. This dish can be served by itself or used in dips, chilis, and chilaquiles. Its potatoey texture and creaminess pairs well with crunchy tortilla chips and rich salsa. Black beans are incorporated into dishes as a filling for tacos, burritos, and chimichangas. They’re a more flavorful addition to Mexican foods, served with a side of rice or mixed in with spices and zesty meats. 

Sample some hearty bean dishes at Ono Loco Tacos in Wahiawa and Honolulu, HI. Their authentic Mexican food is available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Fine ingredients combined with traditional Mexican cooking methods have satiated appetites all across Oahu. Call (808) 376-8996 to order out, visit them online to peruse their menu, or follow them on Facebook for exclusive specials and deals.