Step 1

Rinse and pick over the beans, looking for little stones that might be masquerading as beans.

Step 2

(If you soak your beans, put them in a bowl amply covered with water. Let soak at least 4 hours.)

Step 3

Soak or unsoaked, put the rinsed beans into the pressure cooker or Instant Pot. Especially with the Instant Pot, add the olive oil to prevent foaming. If you wish, add onion, garlic, dried chiles, and a spring of fresh parsley, cilantro, or epazote. Cover with hot water—3 inches above the level of the beans.

Step 4

Bring the pot to pressure and cook for the allotted time, depending on whether the beans were soaked or not, and whether the pressure is “quick-released” or left to come down naturally. (see notes)

Step 5

Season to taste with more salt.

Step 6

Test a bean to make sure it’s tender to your liking. If the beans need to cook more, bring to pressure again for a minute or so. Quick release.

Step 7

You’re there—perfectly cooked pinto beans for you next recipe.