Frijoles Charros

Discover the rich, smoky flavors of Frijoles Charros, a traditional Mexican bean dish made with bacon, chorizo, and spices. Perfect as a side or main dish!

Course dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Mexican

Keyword beans

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 30

Total Time 1

Servings servings

Calories 583kcal

Ingredients

1 pound pinto beans dry - soaked in water for at least 8 hours
12 ounces bacon diced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 yellow onion diced
2 garlic cloves minced
8 oz Mexican chorizo
1 ½ tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp dried oregano
15 oz diced tomatoes 1 can
1 tsp salt
2 bay leaves
4 cups beef broth + extra water as needed

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Place the pinto beans in a bowl. Cover with water and set aside to soak overnight.
Combine the bacon and olive oil in a large pot. Heat over medium, cooking the bacon until crispy. (about 5 minutes)
Add the chorizo to the pot and cook until browned about 5 minutes. Remove the chorizo and bacon from the pot and set aside.
Cook the onion in the same pot until softened - about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Stir the cooked bacon and chorizo back into the pot. Add the cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and bay leaf. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
Mix in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and soaked pinto beans. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes. (or until the beans are tender) You can incorporate hot water 1 cup at a time if needed.
Serve hot with chopped fresh cilantro.

Notes

You can use 1/2 pound ground beef or sausage if you don't have fresh chorizo.

Other vegetables such as jalapenos, diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers can be added.

Serve Frijoles Charros with tortillas, rice, and your favorite toppings.

Nutrition