Charro Beans
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4.5
243 reviews
Excellent
Charro Beans
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Charro Beans! You won't find a heartier, more delicious batch of beans anywhere in Mexico. This version uses bacon and chipotles but feel free to add in some chorizo if you have it. So good!
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Ingredients
- 2 cans pinto beans (drained and rinsed, approx. 4 cups)
- 1/2 lb. bacon (approx. 7-8 slices)
- 4-5 plum tomatoes
- 1/2 onion
- 3 chipotles in adobo
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 cups stock (or water)
- 1/2 teaspoon Mexican oregano (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Give the tomatoes a good rinse and roast them in the oven at 400F for approximately 20 minutes or until you need them.
- Chop up the bacon into small pieces. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until lightly browned (approx. 5-8 minutes depending on the size of the bacon pieces).
- Chop up a 1/2 onion and add it the bacon. I usually reduce heat to mediumish after the bacon is cooked. Let the onion cook for 3-5 minutes or until tender.
- Add 2 minced cloves of garlic and cook briefly, 30-60 seconds.
- Add the roasted tomatoes to the pan (roughly chopping them up in the pan is fine). Also add: 2 cans pinto beans (drained and rinsed), 3 minced chipotles in adobo, 1/2 teaspoon Mexican oregano (optional), 1/2 teaspoon salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and 2 cups of stock (or water). Combine well and let simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid has reduced down a bit.
- Salt to taste. I added another generous pinch to this batch (so that is approx. 1 teaspoon total) but keep in mind that if you are using store-bought stock that's high in sodium then you won't need to add as much salt. You can also add more heat at this point if you want a more fiery batch.
- Serve immediately. Note that these beans are best served in some of the broth.
- Alternatively, you can use part of the batch to make a bean puree. Simply add them to a blender or food processor and combine into a puree.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
Notes
- Although not required, it can be easier to chop up the bacon if you put it in the freezer for 20-30 minutes.
- Although using stock for the liquid will enhance the dish, I've used water with this recipe before and it still tastes great.
- Using 3 chipotles creates some real heat! For a milder version use only 1-2 chipotles. Also note that in a pinch you can substitute fresh jalapenos for the chipotles.
- I typically use half of the batch to make a bean puree.
Nutrition Information
Show Details
Calories
370kcal
(19%)
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 370 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 370kcal | 19% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Genuine Reviews
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.5
243 reviews
Excellent
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