Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros)

These Charro Beans are a hearty, flavorful Mexican classic, perfect as a main dish or a side. With tender pinto beans simmered with bacon, chorizo, ham, and a blend of spices, they’re smoky, savory, and slightly spicy. Serve with warm tortillas or rice for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal.

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Ingredients

For the Beans:

• 1 pound dried pinto beans (about 2 cups)
• 6 cups water, or more if needed
• ¼ of an onion
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 bay leaf

For the Charro Beans:

• 5 slices bacon, chopped
• 5 oz chorizo (or 2 sausages or hot dogs), chopped
• 1 cup diced ham or additional sausages
• ½ of a yellow onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 jalapeño or serrano pepper, seeded and chopped
• ½–1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped (optional, for smoky heat)
• 1 cup fresh chopped cilantro (about ½ bunch)
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pinto Beans

Rinse the beans in a colander, removing any debris.
In a large pot, combine the beans, 6 cups water, ¼ onion, bay leaf, and ½ teaspoon salt.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 1–2 hours, until the beans are tender but not falling apart. Check occasionally, adding water if needed to keep the beans covered.

Once cooked, drain the beans, reserving the liquid. Adjust with additional water to make 2½ cups of liquid. Stir in 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon and set aside.

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2. Make the Charro Bean Base

In a large pot, cook bacon and chorizo over medium heat for about 5 minutes until the bacon is crisp. Remove some grease if desired.
Add onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Stir in ham (or sausages), diced tomatoes, jalapeño, chipotle, cilantro, oregano, paprika, cumin, and black pepper, cooking for another 5 minutes.

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3. Combine and Simmer

Add the cooked beans and broth to the pot.
Simmer for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or additional spices as needed.

Optional: For a thicker consistency when serving as a side, stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) at the end.

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4. Serve

Garnish with extra fresh cilantro and serve warm with tortillas, rice, or enjoy as a hearty side dish.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and smoky flavor: Bacon, chorizo, and chipotle create a bold, satisfying taste.
• Comforting and filling: Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
• Customizable spice: Adjust the heat to your preference with jalapeños or chipotle.
• Versatile: Serve as a main dish, side dish, or taco filling.

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Tips

• Soak beans for faster cooking: Soak overnight to reduce cooking time.
• Reserve some bean liquid: Adds extra flavor and helps control consistency.
• Cook bacon and chorizo first: Builds a rich base for the soup.
• Adjust thickness: Use a cornstarch slurry to thicken beans if serving as a side.
• Fresh cilantro: Add at the end to preserve its bright flavor.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian: Omit bacon, chorizo, and ham; add smoked paprika and extra vegetables for depth.
• Spice level: Increase jalapeño or chipotle for heat, or remove entirely for mild flavor.
• Protein swap: Use smoked sausage, ham hocks, or leftover cooked chicken.
• Beans: Substitute black beans or kidney beans if desired.

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FAQs

Can I use canned beans?
Yes, substitute 4–5 cups cooked beans; reduce cooking time since they are already tender.

Can this be made ahead?
Absolutely! Flavors develop overnight — store in the fridge and reheat gently.

How spicy is it?
Mild to moderate by default; adjust chipotle and jalapeño according to your taste.

Can I freeze Charro Beans?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat slowly on the stove.

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Serving

Serve Charro Beans hot with warm tortillas, rice, or cornbread.
They also make a hearty topping for tacos, nachos, or burrito bowls.

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Suggestions

• Garnish with extra cilantro, diced onions, or a squeeze of lime for brightness.
• Serve with Mexican crema or shredded cheese for indulgence.
• Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Add a fried egg on top for a flavorful brunch option.