Description
Charro Beans, or Frijoles Charros, are a beloved traditional Mexican dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This savory bean stew combines hearty pinto beans with rich flavors from bacon, ham, and spices, creating a satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings or taco nights. Not only are Charro Beans delicious, but they are also nutritious, packed with protein and fiber. This easy recipe allows you to enjoy a dish that can be served as a side or main course, making it incredibly versatile. Whether you prefer them alongside grilled meats or as a filling in tacos and burritos, these beans will surely impress everyone.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound dried pinto beans
- 8 ounces bacon
- 1 cup cooked ham
- 3 Roma tomatoes
- 1 jalapeño
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
- Water, as needed
Instructions
- Rinse and sort the dried pinto beans, then soak overnight if possible.
- In a large pot, combine beans with water, onion, garlic, bay leaves, salt, and oregano. Bring to a boil and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until tender.
- Reserve some cooking liquid and drain the rest. In the same pot, cook diced bacon until crispy.
- Add ham, onions, jalapeño; sauté until soft.
- Stir in garlic and tomatoes; cook until juicy.
- Mix in cooked beans and reserved liquid; season to taste.
- Serve warm with chopped cilantro.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 13g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 30mg