Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)

Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros) are a delightful and hearty Mexican dish perfect for any occasion. These cowboy beans are simmered in a rich broth with ingredients like bacon, ham, and spices, creating a flavor that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether served as a side dish at family gatherings or enjoyed as a main course during casual meals, Charro Beans are sure to impress with their unique taste and versatility.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Hearty: Charro Beans pack a punch with the savory flavors of bacon and spices, making each bite memorable.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy them as a side, main meal, or even in tacos; they adapt beautifully to various serving styles.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this recipe welcomes cooks of all skill levels.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber from pinto beans, this dish is not only delicious but also healthy.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch ahead of time; these beans store well and taste even better the next day.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros), you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering beans evenly, ensuring they cook thoroughly.
• Measuring cups: Helps maintain accurate ingredient proportions for balanced flavors.
• Cutting board & sharp knife: Essential for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.

Ingredients

Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros) are Mexican cowboy beans simmered in a flavorful broth made of bacon, ham, onions, chiles, tomato, and more!

For the Beans

• 1 pound dried pinto beans (see Notes for using canned beans)
• ½ yellow onion
• 2 cloves garlic, (smashed)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
• Water, (as needed)

For the Flavor Base

• 8 ounces bacon, (diced)
• 1 cup cubed cooked ham
• ½ yellow onion, (diced)
• 1 jalapeño, (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic, (minced)
• 3 Roma tomatoes, (diced)
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, (minced)
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• Kosher salt, (to taste)
• Chopped cilantro, (for serving)

How to Make Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)

Step 1: Rinse the Beans

Rinse the beans under running water to remove any dirt. Drain them and sort through to discard any shriveled or split beans as well as small rocks.

Step 2: Prepare the Cooking Liquid

Add the rinsed beans, ½ yellow onion, smashed 2 cloves garlic, bay leaves, kosher salt, dried Mexican oregano, and enough water to cover all ingredients by about 3 inches into your large pot or Dutch oven.

Step 3: Boil the Beans

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 ½ to 2 hours until the beans are soft. Check after one hour; add more water if needed.

Step 4: Reserve Cooking Liquid

Drain the beans into a large bowl but reserve 4 cups of cooking liquid. Discard bay leaves. If you have less than 4 cups of liquid left, add more water or chicken broth until you reach this amount.

Step 5: Cook Bacon

In your same large pot or Dutch oven, add chopped bacon. Cook over medium heat for about 8 minutes until edges crisp up and fat renders.

Step 6: Add Ham and Vegetables

Stir in cubed ham, diced onions, and jalapeños. Cook for about 5 minutes until onions become translucent and peppers soften.

Step 7: Add Garlic

Mix in minced garlic; cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 8: Incorporate Tomatoes

Add diced Roma tomatoes, minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, and ground cumin. Cook for around 10 minutes until tomatoes release their juices.

Step 9: Combine Everything

Stir in your cooked pinto beans along with reserved cooking liquid. Bring this mixture back to a boil; taste it before seasoning with additional salt if necessary.

Step 10: Serve

Finally, stir in chopped cilantro and serve immediately while hot. Enjoy your delicious Charro Beans!

How to Serve Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)

Charro Beans are a delicious and hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. They make a versatile side or a main dish, perfect for any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• Complement your favorite grilled meats with a side of charro beans for a robust flavor pairing.

In Tacos

• Use charro beans as a filling for tacos along with fresh toppings like avocado and salsa.

With Rice

• Serve charro beans over a bed of fluffy white rice for a comforting and filling meal.

As a Dip

• Mash the beans slightly and serve them as a dip with tortilla chips for an enjoyable appetizer.

Garnished with Cilantro

• Top your dish with extra chopped cilantro to brighten the flavors of the charro beans.

On Breakfast Burritos

• Add charro beans to breakfast burritos alongside scrambled eggs and cheese for a tasty morning boost.

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How to Perfect Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)

Perfecting charro beans takes practice and attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out just right.

• Rinse the Beans Thoroughly – This removes any dirt or impurities, resulting in cleaner flavors.
• Soak Overnight – Soaking dried beans overnight can reduce cooking time and improve texture.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste your broth before serving; feel free to add more salt or spices as needed.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic, onions, and tomatoes enhance the overall taste of your charro beans.
• Simmer Gently – A gentle simmer helps develop rich flavors without breaking down the beans too much.
• Experiment with Spice Levels – Adjust the amount of jalapeño or chipotle pepper based on your heat preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)

Charro Beans go wonderfully with many side dishes, adding variety and flavor to your meal. Here are some excellent choices to consider.

1. Mexican Rice – A flavorful rice dish cooked with tomatoes and spices that pairs perfectly with beans.
2. Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip that adds richness and freshness alongside spicy charro beans.
3. Corn Tortillas – Warm, soft tortillas are perfect for scooping up beans or wrapping them in.
4. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection bring color and nutrition to your plate.
5. Queso Fresco – Crumbled cheese sprinkled on top adds creaminess that complements the rich broth of the beans.
6. Salsa Verde – A tangy green salsa that lifts the flavors of charro beans while adding zest.
7. Cabbage Slaw – Crunchy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich texture of the beans.
8. Chips & Salsa – Classic crunchy chips served with fresh salsa make for an addictive appetizer when enjoying charro beans.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make common mistakes when preparing Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros) that can affect the flavor and texture of this beloved dish. Here are some to watch out for:

• Skipping the soaking step: Not soaking dried beans overnight can lead to longer cooking times and uneven textures. Always soak your beans to ensure they cook properly.
• Overcooking the beans: Cooking beans too long can cause them to break apart and become mushy. Keep an eye on them during simmering and check for doneness periodically.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process can result in bland beans. Always taste before serving!
• Using low-quality ingredients: Substituting fresh or high-quality ingredients with lower-quality options can diminish the taste. Invest in good bacon, fresh herbs, and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Rushing the cooking process: Skipping steps or hurrying through cooking will compromise flavor development. Take your time to let the ingredients meld together for a richer broth.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros) can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a baking dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re wondering more about Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros), here are some common questions answered.

Can I use canned beans for Charro Beans?

Yes, you can use canned beans. Rinse them well and reduce the cooking time since they are already cooked.

What meats work best in Charro Beans?

Bacon and ham are traditional choices, but you can also add sausage or even vegetables for a vegetarian version.

How do I spice up my Charro Beans?

You can add more jalapeños or even a splash of hot sauce if you like extra heat!

What can I serve with Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)?

These beans pair well with rice, tortillas, or as a side dish alongside grilled meats.

Final Thoughts

Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros) are not only comforting but also versatile enough for any meal. Whether served at a family gathering or as part of a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!