# pinto

/ˈpɪnˌtoʊ/ (US) · /pˈɪntəʊ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pinto
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a type of small, light brown bean with dark spots. It is very common in Mexican and American cooking.

For teachers: a variety of common bean characterized by a mottled or speckled skin. Often used in Latin American and Southwestern United States cuisines.

## Examples

- I added a can of pinto beans to the chili.
- The recipe calls for dried pinto beans to be soaked overnight before they are simmered with garlic and onions.
- While black beans are a staple in Caribbean dishes, the pinto bean remains the preferred choice for traditional refried beans due to its creamy texture when mashed.

## Usage notes

- Usually used in the plural form ('pinto beans') when referring to the food item.

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