Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)

Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros) are a delightful traditional Mexican dish, perfect for any occasion. These hearty beans simmer in a rich broth infused with flavors from bacon, ham, and spices. Whether served as a side dish at a family gathering or as the star of your next taco night, Charro Beans offer warmth and satisfaction that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of bacon, ham, and spices creates a savory broth that enhances the natural taste of pinto beans.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy Charro Beans as a side or main course; they pair well with many Mexican dishes like tacos and enchiladas.
• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create a comforting meal that is both delicious and satisfying.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week; they reheat beautifully!
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein and fiber, these beans are not only tasty but also good for you.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros), you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Colander
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Allows for even cooking of beans and accommodates all ingredients comfortably.
• Colander: Essential for rinsing beans and draining them after cooking.
• Measuring cups: Ensures precise ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

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 Flavorful Broth

• 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 by discarding any shriveled or split beans along with any small rocks.

Step 2: Prepare the Cooking Liquid

Add the rinsed beans, onion, smashed garlic cloves, bay leaves, kosher salt, Mexican oregano, and enough water to cover everything by about three inches into a large pot or Dutch oven.

Step 3: Cook the Beans

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

Step 4: Reserve Cooking Liquid

Drain the cooked beans into a bowl to reserve the cooking liquid. Discard bay leaves. Measure out four cups of this liquid; add more water or chicken broth if needed. Set aside.

Step 5: Cook Bacon

In the same large pot or Dutch oven used for beans, add diced bacon. Cook over medium heat for about eight minutes until crispy and fat has rendered out.

Step 6: Add Ham and Vegetables

Stir in cubed ham, diced onions, and diced jalapeños. Cook for five minutes until onions are translucent and peppers are tender.

Step 7: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic and cook for another thirty seconds until fragrant.

Step 8: Incorporate Tomatoes & Spices

Mix in diced tomatoes, minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, and ground cumin. Cook for ten minutes until tomatoes release juices.

Step 9: Combine Everything

Add cooked beans back into the pot along with four cups of reserved cooking liquid. Bring it back to a boil. Taste it and season with additional salt if required.

Step 10: Serve

Finally, stir in chopped cilantro before serving warm alongside your favorite dishes!

Enjoy your delicious homemade Charro Beans!

How to Serve Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)

Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros) are a hearty and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• With Grilled Meats – Pair charro beans with grilled steak or chicken for a well-rounded meal.
• On Tacos – Use them as a filling for tacos, adding a unique twist to your favorite recipe.

In a Burrito

• Burrito Filling – Wrap charro beans in a tortilla with rice, cheese, and avocado for a satisfying burrito.

With Rice

• Over Mexican Rice – Serve charro beans over a bed of fluffy Mexican rice for an authentic touch.

As a Soup

• Bean Soup Style – Add extra broth and enjoy charro beans as a comforting soup topped with cilantro.

With Tortillas

• Dipped with Tortillas – Serve alongside warm tortillas for dipping, perfect for scooping up every flavorful bite.

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How to Perfect Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)

Getting your charro beans just right takes some know-how. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Soak the Beans – Soaking dried pinto beans overnight helps soften them and reduces cooking time.
• Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh ingredients like tomatoes and herbs will elevate the flavor of your dish.
• Monitor Cooking Liquid – Keep an eye on the water level while simmering; you want them to be tender but not dry.
• Let Them Sit – Allowing the beans to rest after cooking enhances their flavor as they soak up the spices.
• Adjust Spices to Taste – Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasoning based on your preferences; everyone loves their charro beans differently.

Best Side Dishes for Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)

Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros) pair wonderfully with several side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Mexican Rice – Fluffy and seasoned rice that complements the rich flavors of the beans.
2. Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip that adds freshness and richness to your meal.
3. Cornbread – A slightly sweet bread that balances out the savory taste of charro beans.
4. Elote (Mexican Street Corn) – Grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayo, cheese, and spices—an irresistible treat!
5. Pico de Gallo – A fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime; it adds brightness to your plate.
6. Chips and Salsa – Crispy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa make for an excellent appetizer alongside charro beans.
7. Fried Plantains – Sweet fried plantains provide a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the dish.
8. Cabbage Slaw – A crunchy slaw adds texture and balances out the richness of charro beans.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros), it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that could affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Ignoring soaking the beans: Failing to soak dried beans can lead to uneven cooking. Always soak your beans overnight or for at least 6 hours to ensure they cook evenly.
• Not tasting during cooking: Skipping out on taste testing can result in bland beans. Be sure to taste and adjust seasoning as you cook for the best flavor.
• Adding salt too early: Adding salt at the beginning can toughen the beans’ skin. Wait until the beans are nearly tender before adding salt for optimal texture.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking beans for too long can turn them mushy, while undercooking leaves them hard. Keep an eye on them and test for doneness after 1 hour of simmering.
• Rushing the cooking process: Trying to speed up cooking by increasing heat can cause uneven results. Always simmer on low heat for a consistent and flavorful broth.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros) in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 4-5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about preparing Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros).

Can I use canned beans for Charro Beans?

Yes! Canned beans can save time. Just rinse and adjust cooking time since they are already cooked.

What kind of bacon is best for Charro Beans?

Use thick-cut bacon for a richer flavor. It adds depth and texture to your dish.

How can I customize my Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or swap out meats based on your preference.

Are Charro Beans gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no gluten-containing ingredients.

What do I serve with Charro Beans?

Charro Beans pair well with rice, tortillas, or grilled meats, making them a versatile side dish.

Final Thoughts

Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros) are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various ingredients based on your taste preferences. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these flavorful beans are sure to impress everyone at the table!