Whether you are a busy parent, student, professional, or just a novice cook, knowing how to put together a simple, inexpensive meal is useful and empowering.  Once you have done it, you always have something good to fall back on.  The following recipes will help you get started.

Pinto Beans

Dry pinto beans, a small bag, or a couple of cups.  Seasoning suggestions are: Chili powder, Cumin, garlic powder, or chili seasoning, bay leaf.  If you simply like salt or pepper do not add salt until beans are cooked. Salt can make the beans hard.  Add ham, salt pork, hocks, bacon, or fried hamburger meat if you like. Just vegetarian style is very good.  You could add a product called Soyrizo which is a soy version of the Mexican sausage, Chorizo.  Very good.

There are several methods for cooking the beans.  If you have a crock pot or pressure cooker simply follow the directions with the appliance.  If you are using an ordinary pot you can soak the beans overnight or bring them to a boil and let them sit for an hour, then cook on medium heat.  If you like them a bit mushy, you can let them boil.  If you like them more whole, then keep your flame on low.  Make sure you keep an eye on the pot and add more water from time to time.

Cornbread

When your beans are done, make your cornbread.  Again, there are many methods for cornbread.  A very simple way is to buy self-rising cornmeal and just follow the directions on the bag.  You will just need an egg and some milk.  If you prefer a more holistic bread buy some stone ground meal and add your baking powder and or soda, milk or buttermilk, egg, and shortening.  There is most always a recipe on the bag or if you are experienced you can “do it by ear” so to speak.

Salad

You now need a salad.  Good suggestions are tossed vegetable salad or Cole slaw.  For tossed salad simply wash and tear or cut your lettuce, include tomatoes, carrot, or whatever you prefer.  For slaw shred or chop your cabbage, carrots or what have you.  Add dressing of your choice.

This is a simple, basic outline.  If you want to get more complex you can check the web for more complicated recipes or cookbooks.  Also, leftover pinto beans are great in tacos, bean loaf, bean sandwiches, and soup.  Your simple meal is ready.  Enjoy!