Charro Beans
Charro beans, or “frijoles charros,” are a beloved Mexican dish that captures the essence of home cooking. With a blend of spices, beans, and fresh ingredients, this dish is both comforting and satisfying. Perfect as a main course or a side, charro beans are ideal for gatherings and family dinners. Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe that celebrates traditional Mexican cuisine!
Ingredients
– 2 cups pinto beans, soaked overnight
– 1/2 lb bacon, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño, diced
– 2 tomatoes, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 1.5 hours.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of charro beans contains approximately 250 calories, 12g protein, 8g fat, 36g carbohydrates, and 10g fiber. This is based on one serving, making it a nutritious addition to your meal.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Rinse and drain the soaked pinto beans.
2. In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.
4. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until translucent.
5. Stir in the minced garlic and diced jalapeño; cook for another 2 minutes.
6. Add the diced tomatoes and cook until soft.
7. Return the bacon to the pot, then add the rinsed beans.
8. Pour in the chicken broth and add cumin, salt, and pepper.
9. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour.
10. Adjust seasoning if necessary, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
If you want to make a vegetarian version, substitute bacon with smoked paprika for flavor. You can also use black beans or kidney beans instead of pinto beans for a different taste.
Serving and Pairings
Charro beans are best served with warm tortillas, rice, or as a topping for tacos. They also pair well with grilled meats and fresh avocado slices for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover charro beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can be reheated on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave. Charro beans can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure they are cooled and stored properly.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip soaking the beans; it helps with cooking and digestion.
– Avoid adding too much salt at the beginning; taste and adjust later.
– Ensure the beans are fully cooked; undercooked beans can be hard.
– Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
– Use low heat to avoid burning the bottom.
Helpful Tips
– For extra flavor, add a splash of lime juice before serving.
– Garnish with crumbled queso fresco for a creamy texture.
– If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash some beans against the pot.
– Experiment with different chilies for heat.
FAQs
What are charro beans made of?
Charro beans are primarily made of pinto beans cooked with bacon, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and spices. The combination creates a savory and hearty dish typical of Mexican cuisine.
Can charro beans be made vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make charro beans vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth. Smoked paprika can add a similar flavor profile without meat.
How do you store leftover charro beans?
Leftover charro beans should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can be reheated on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze charro beans?
Yes, charro beans can be frozen for up to 3 months. Ensure they are cooled completely and stored in a freezer-safe container.
How do you serve charro beans?
Charro beans can be served as a main dish or a side. They pair well with rice, tortillas, or as a topping for tacos, making them versatile for various meals.
What is the difference between charro beans and refried beans?
Charro beans are cooked whole and served in a broth, whereas refried beans are mashed and cooked again with fat. Charro beans have a more soupy consistency compared to the thicker refried variety.
Conclusion
Charro beans are a delightful dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. With their rich ingredients and hearty texture, they not only satisfy hunger but also provide a taste of Mexican tradition. Enjoy this recipe with family and friends for gatherings that celebrate good food and great company.
Charro Beans
Ingredients
- 2 cups pinto beans soaked overnight
- 1/2 lb bacon diced
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 jalapeño diced
- 2 tomatoes diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse and drain the soaked pinto beans.
- In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
- Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and diced jalapeño; cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes and cook until soft.
- Return the bacon to the pot, then add the rinsed beans.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
