Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)

Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros) are a delightful Mexican dish that brings the flavors of the countryside right to your kitchen. These beans are simmered in a savory broth filled with bacon, ham, onions, and spices, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as a hearty side dish for family gatherings or enjoying them on a cozy night in, Charro Beans offer a rich taste that will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of bacon, ham, and spices creates a deliciously savory broth that enhances the beans.
• Easy Preparation: Simple steps make this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled meats, tacos, or as part of a festive meal.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein and fiber, these beans are not only tasty but also healthy.
• Make Ahead: These beans can be prepared in advance and reheated, making them ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros), gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for simmering the beans slowly to develop deep flavors.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient portions for consistent results.

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 and sort them by discarding any shriveled or split beans and small rocks.

Step 2: Prepare Cooking Liquid

Add the rinsed beans, onion, smashed garlic cloves, bay leaves, kosher salt, Mexican oregano, and enough water to cover everything plus an additional 3 inches to a large pot or Dutch oven.

Step 3: Simmer 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 soft and tender. Check at the 1-hour mark; add more water if necessary.

Step 4: Reserve Cooking Liquid

Drain the cooked beans into a large bowl to reserve the liquid. Discard bay leaves. Measure out 4 cups of cooking liquid; add more water or chicken broth if needed.

Step 5: Cook Bacon

In the same pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add diced bacon. Cook for about 8 minutes until crispy edges form and fat is rendered.

Step 6: Add Meats and Vegetables

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

Step 7: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic; cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 8: Incorporate Tomatoes

Add diced Roma tomatoes along with minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce and ground cumin. Cook for about 10 minutes until tomatoes break down.

Step 9: Combine Beans with Broth

Add cooked beans back into the pot along with reserved cooking liquid. Bring everything to a boil; taste and adjust salt as necessary.

Step 10: Finish with Cilantro

Finally, stir in chopped cilantro before serving immediately. Enjoy your flavorful Charro Beans!

How to Serve Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)

Charro Beans are a delicious and hearty dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your meal. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• Serve the charro beans hot in a bowl with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top for a simple yet satisfying meal.

With Rice

• Pair charro beans with fluffy white rice or Mexican rice. The beans’ rich flavor complements the rice perfectly.

In Tacos

• Use charro beans as a filling for soft or crunchy tacos. Add toppings like avocado and salsa for extra flavor.

As a Side Dish

• Serve charro beans alongside grilled meats or fish. Their smoky flavor pairs well with various proteins.

With Tortillas

• Offer warm corn or flour tortillas on the side for dipping into the beans, creating a delightful combination.

Topped with Cheese

• Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese over the top just before serving for added creaminess.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)

Getting the perfect texture and flavor in your charro beans is key to enjoying this traditional dish. Here are some tips to help you achieve that.

• Soak the Beans: Soaking dried pinto beans overnight can reduce cooking time and improve their texture.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices yield better flavor than dried ones, so opt for fresh where possible.
• Control Heat: Keep an eye on your simmering pot; too high heat can break down the beans, while too low may not cook them properly.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your broth during cooking to adjust seasoning early, ensuring balanced flavors.
• Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve charro beans right after cooking while they are still hot.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)

Charro Beans make an excellent centerpiece for any meal. Complement them with these tasty side dishes to create a well-rounded feast.

1. Mexican Rice: A flavorful side made with tomatoes, onions, and spices that pairs beautifully with charro beans.
2. Grilled Corn: Sweet corn brushed with butter and lime adds a refreshing crunch alongside the creamy beans.
3. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip seasoned with lime and cilantro enhances the flavors of charro beans in tacos or bowls.
4. Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro brings brightness to your meal.
5. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn coated in mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime makes for a deliciously indulgent side.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa offer a perfect appetizer before serving charro beans.
7. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender provides a nutritious complement to the dish.
8. Cabbage Slaw: A crisp slaw dressed lightly in lime juice offers a refreshing contrast to the warm beans.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros), it’s easy to overlook some key details that can impact flavor and texture. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the soak: Not soaking dried beans before cooking can lead to uneven cooking. Always soak them overnight or at least for a few hours.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Using fresh and flavorful ingredients is essential. Opt for high-quality bacon and fresh vegetables for the best taste.
• Neglecting the seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Taste as you go and adjust the salt and spices according to your preference.
• Rushing the cooking process: Cooking beans too quickly can result in tough textures. Be patient and let them simmer slowly for the best results.
• Not reserving the cooking liquid: Discarding the bean broth means losing flavor. Always save some liquid to enhance your dish’s richness.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros) in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)

• Place cooled beans in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place beans in a covered oven-safe dish, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl covered loosely with a lid, checking every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros).

What are Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)?

Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros) are traditional Mexican cowboy beans cooked with bacon, ham, onions, tomatoes, and spices, creating a savory dish.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes! If using canned beans, simply rinse them before adding them into the recipe during the last steps of cooking.

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

They pair wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or as a side dish alongside grilled meats.

How long does it take to cook dried beans?

Cooking dried beans generally takes between 1.5 to 2 hours on low heat after boiling initially.

Final Thoughts

Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros) offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures that make them a comforting side dish or main course. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or vegetables. Enjoy this hearty meal with family and friends!