Description
Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros) are a classic Mexican comfort food that brings the heartwarming flavors of tradition to your dinner table. This dish features pinto beans simmered in a rich, savory broth infused with crispy bacon, hearty ham, and aromatic spices. Perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy nights in, Charro Beans can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or as a delightful side dish paired with grilled meats or tacos. With their nutrient-rich profile, these beans not only satisfy your taste buds but also provide health benefits with every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound dried pinto beans
- 8 ounces bacon (diced)
- 1 cup cubed cooked ham
- 1 jalapeño (diced)
- 3 Roma tomatoes (diced)
- ½ yellow onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Ground cumin
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse and sort the dried beans, discarding any damaged ones.
- In a large pot, combine the beans, onion, garlic, bay leaves, salt, oregano, and enough water to cover by three inches. Bring to a boil then simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until tender.
- Drain the beans but reserve the cooking liquid. In the same pot, cook diced bacon until crispy.
- Add ham, onion, and jalapeño; sauté until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook briefly before adding tomatoes and chipotle pepper.
- Return the beans to the pot along with reserved cooking liquid; season to taste and simmer briefly.
- Serve hot topped with chopped cilantro.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 30mg