1 cup (medium) of Mexican beans (170 g) has 216 calories. That works out to 127 calories per 100 g. It contains 38.8 g of carbs, 14.8 g of protein, 0.9 g of fat and 12.6 g of fiber. Its 221 µg of Folate covers 55% of the Daily Value. Its glycemic index is 29 (low), so it raises blood sugar slowly.

What is Mexican beans?

Mexican beans are tender, substantial beans commonly cooked in Mexican cuisine, often simmered slowly with aromatics and spices until some of the beans soften into the sauce. Recipes vary, but onion, garlic, tomato and chilli are familiar additions. They may be served whole or mashed, and are also used as a filling or side.

Their earthy flavour and creamy texture work well with rice, tortillas, eggs or fresh toppings such as salsa and herbs. They are naturally low in fat and provide both protein and fibre; a 100 g serving has 7.4 g of fibre. For a lighter meal, pair them with plenty of vegetables and go easy on richer toppings.

Mexican beans Nutrition Facts

Selected: 100 g

127

KCAL / 100G

Carbs

22.8g

· 8% DV

Protein

8.7g

· 17% DV

Fat

0.5g

· 1% DV

Fiber

7.4g

· 26% DV

DV is the share of the daily value covered, on a 2,000 kcal reference diet.

Calories come from: Carbs 70% · Protein 27% · Fat 3%

Mexican beans Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamins

Folate

130µg · 33% DV

0.21mg · 18% DV

0.13mg · 8% DV

Biotin

2µg · 7% DV

Minerals

Phosphorus

142mg · 20% DV

Potassium ⭐

403mg · 12% DV

Iron

2mg · 11% DV

Magnesium

47mg · 11% DV

How Nutritious Is Mexican beans?

Nutrient density

Very high

80/ 100

How many vitamins, minerals and how much fiber this food carries per calorie. A high score means a lot of nutrition for few calories.

Satiety score

High

70/ 100

An EatBetter score computed from fiber, protein and calorie density. A high score means staying full longer on the same calories.

Both scores are calculated per 100 g and do not change with the selected portion. The satiety score is EatBetter's own calculation, not a clinical measure.

Mexican beans Glycemic Index

GLYCEMIC INDEX

Low

0 Low5570100

GLYCEMIC LOAD

Low

Accounts for portion size — a more realistic measure than GI alone.

How to Burn Off Mexican beans

To burn the 127 calories in 100 g:

🚶

31min

Walking (5 km/h)

🏃

13min

Running (8 km/h)

🚴

17min

Cycling

🏊

15min

Swimming

Times are calculated with the MET equation for a 70 kg adult. Actual burn varies with your weight, age and pace.

Is Mexican beans Processed?

NOVA 2

Minimally Processed

1. Unprocessed

2. Minimally Processed

3. Processed

4. Ultra-Processed

NOVA classifies foods into 4 groups by industrial processing. NOVA 1 (unprocessed) is the healthiest.

Does Mexican beans Contain Allergens?

No known major allergens

Gluten free

Dairy free

Eggs free

Peanuts free

Tree nuts free

Fish free

Soy free

Sesame free

Which Diets Is Mexican beans Good For?

Vegan

✓ Suitable

Vegetarian

✓ Suitable

Gluten-Free

✓ Suitable

Dairy-Free

— Not suitable

Mediterranean

✓ Suitable

Paleo

✓ Suitable

Whole30

— Not suitable

DASH

— Not suitable

Keto

— Not suitable

Low FODMAP

— Not suitable

Mexican beans Fat Profile

SATURATED

0.12g

MONOUNSATURATED

0.07g

POLYUNSATURATED

0.18g

⚖️

Omega 6:3 ratio 3.3:1

Below the ideal 4:1 — a good omega balance.

Compare Mexican beans

🌱vs🥣

Mexican beans vs Green Lentils (Boiled)11 kcal more per 100 g

→🌱vs🌱

Mexican beans vs Edamame6 kcal more per 100 g

→🌱vs🫘

Mexican beans vs White BeansSame calories per 100 g

→🌱vs🍲

Mexican beans vs Bean Stew with Meat7 kcal more per 100 g

→

Foods Similar to Mexican beans

🥣

Green Lentils (Boiled)

116 kcal

🌱

Edamame

121 kcal

🫘

White Beans

127 kcal

🍲

Bean Stew with Meat

120 kcal

🥣

Lentil Soup

75 kcal

🥜

Roasted Chickpeas

380 kcal

🥙

Lentil meatballs

145 kcal

🥙

Hummus

166 kcal

Frequently Asked Questions About Mexican beans

What are Mexican beans?

Mexican beans usually means beans prepared or sold in a Mexican style, rather than one single bean variety. Recipes and products may use pinto, kidney, or other beans, often cooked with tomato, onion, and spices, so the exact bean can vary.

Are Mexican beans the same as pinto beans?

No, Mexican beans are not necessarily pinto beans. “Mexican beans” can describe a dish or a product made with different varieties, while pinto beans are one specific type that is commonly used in Mexican cooking.

How do you cook dried Mexican beans?

Cook dried Mexican beans by soaking them, draining the soaking water, and simmering them in fresh water until tender. Add tomato or other acidic ingredients near the end, since acidity can slow softening; season the beans once they are cooked.

Do you have to soak Mexican beans before cooking?

Soaking dried Mexican beans is recommended because it helps them cook more evenly and often shortens cooking time. Cover them with water overnight, then drain and rinse before cooking. Canned Mexican beans are already cooked and do not need soaking.

How do you make Mexican beans taste like restaurant beans?

For restaurant-style Mexican beans, simmer cooked beans with sautéed onion, garlic, cumin, and a little cooking liquid until the flavors come together. Mash a small portion into the sauce for a thicker texture, and adjust the seasoning before serving.

Can you use Mexican beans in tacos?

Yes, Mexican beans work well as a taco filling. Drain and warm them with cumin, chili, and a splash of water, then lightly mash some of the beans so the filling holds together; add them with vegetables or other taco toppings.

Should you rinse canned Mexican beans?

Rinse canned Mexican beans if you want to remove some of their packing liquid or a salty, starchy coating. If the can contains a seasoned sauce you want to keep, drain only what you need and taste the dish before adding more salt.

Can you freeze cooked Mexican beans?

Yes, cooked Mexican beans freeze well. Cool them first, then freeze in airtight, portion-sized containers with a little cooking liquid to help prevent them from drying out. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before eating.

How long do cooked Mexican beans last in the fridge?

Cooked Mexican beans keep for about 3–4 days in a covered container in the refrigerator. Refrigerate them promptly after cooking, and store opened canned beans in a separate container rather than leaving them in the can.

What can you serve with Mexican beans?

Mexican beans pair well with rice, tortillas, grilled vegetables, eggs, or a fresh tomato salsa. Their thick, savory sauce also works as a filling for burritos or bowls; add a crisp or fresh side to balance the soft texture.

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Nutrition data compiled from USDA FoodData Central and scientific sources.

· Last updated: September 24, 2026