Charro Beans
Charro beans, or “frijoles charros,” are a beloved Mexican dish that combines pinto beans with a medley of spices, bacon, and vegetables. This hearty recipe not only warms the soul but also excites the palate with its robust flavors. Ideal for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, charro beans are versatile, delicious, and easy to make. Get ready to enjoy a true taste of Mexico!
Ingredients
- 1 pound pinto beans
- 4 cups water
- 4 strips of bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Preparation time is around 10 minutes, with a cooking time of about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 200 calories, 10g protein, 5g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 8g dietary fiber. These values are based on one serving for an adult.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Rinse the pinto beans under cold water and soak them overnight for best results.
- In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and chopped jalapeño; cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the soaked beans and water to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about an hour.
- Add the diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning as necessary and add more water if needed for desired consistency.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can substitute pinto beans with black beans or kidney beans. For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Charro beans can be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats, tacos, or rice. They also pair wonderfully with cornbread or tortillas for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop or in the microwave. Charro beans can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not soaking the beans long enough can lead to uneven cooking.
- Overcooking the beans may cause them to become mushy.
- Using too much water can dilute the flavor; add gradually.
- Forgetting to season properly can lead to bland beans.
- Not sautéing the aromatics first can result in underdeveloped flavors.
Helpful Tips
- Always rinse beans before soaking to remove any debris.
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of jalapeño.
- For added richness, stir in a tablespoon of lime juice before serving.
- Let the beans sit for a few hours to enhance the flavors.
FAQs
What are charro beans?
Charro beans are a traditional Mexican dish made primarily from pinto beans, cooked with various seasonings, vegetables, and often bacon. They are known for their savory and slightly spicy flavor.
Can I make charro beans vegetarian?
Yes! To make vegetarian charro beans, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can add more vegetables for flavor.
How do I serve charro beans?
Charro beans can be served as a side dish or a main course. They pair well with rice, tacos, or cornbread for a complete meal.
Can I freeze charro beans?
Absolutely! Charro beans freeze well. Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
What can I do with leftover charro beans?
Leftover charro beans can be used in burritos, added to soups, or served over rice for a quick meal. They also make a great filling for enchiladas.
Conclusion
Charro beans are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a rich, hearty flavor that embodies the essence of Mexican cuisine. Easy to prepare and versatile, they are perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. Enjoy this classic dish and savor the warmth it brings to your table!
Charro Beans
Ingredients
- 1 pound pinto beans
- 4 cups water
- 4 strips of bacon chopped
- 1 onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 jalapeño chopped
- 2 tomatoes diced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the pinto beans under cold water and soak them overnight.
- In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and chopped jalapeño; cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the soaked beans and water to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about an hour.
- Add the diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning as necessary and add more water if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
