Charro Beans

Charro Beans, or Frijoles Charros, are a traditional Mexican side dish that bursts with bold, smoky, and savory flavors. This hearty recipe combines tender pinto beans simmered in a flavorful broth , cubed ham, tomatoes, onions, and jalapenos. Perfect as a side dish for tacos, grilled meats, or fajitas, these beans are a staple in Mexican cuisine and a must-try for anyone who loves rich, comforting dishes.

Ingredients

• 1 yellow onion, minced
• 2 jalapenos, seeded and diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cubed ham
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) pinto beans, drained but not rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) Mexican-style diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• Fresh cilantro and lime wedges, for garnish

Instructions

1. Add the minced onion and diced jalapenos to the pot and sauté over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes until the onions become translucent.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cubed ham, cooking for an additional minute to build flavor.
3. Return the cooked bacon to the pot, then add the pinto beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened and infused with flavor.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve Charro Beans hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a burst of freshness. They pair beautifully with grilled meats, tacos, enchiladas, or rice. You can also enjoy them as a hearty stew with warm tortillas or cornbread. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little chicken broth if needed to loosen the consistency. For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations

1. Chorizo Charro Beans – Replace ham with spicy Mexican chorizo for an extra kick of smoky heat and depth of flavor.
2. Vegetarian Charro Beans – Skip the bacon and ham, use vegetable broth, and add sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for richness.
3. Slow Cooker Charro Beans – Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours for tender, flavorful beans.
4. Spicy Charro Beans – Add extra jalapenos or a diced serrano pepper for an intense spice boost.
5. Beer Charro Beans – Replace half of the chicken broth with Mexican beer for a rich, malty undertone that complements the bacon.
6. Smoked Sausage Charro Beans – Substitute the ham with smoked sausage or andouille for a smoky, meaty twist.
7. Tomatillo Charro Beans – Add ½ cup of chopped tomatillos for a tangy, bright flavor.
8. Chipotle Charro Beans – Stir in 1 tablespoon of chipotle in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy flavor with a hint of sweetness.
9. Charro Beans with Ground Beef – Add browned ground beef to make the dish more filling and hearty—perfect as a standalone meal.
10. Cheesy Charro Beans – Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese over the top before serving for a creamy, melty finish.
11. Crockpot Charro Beans with Dry Beans – Use 1 pound of dry pinto beans (soaked overnight), then cook low and slow with all other ingredients for 8–9 hours.
12. Charro Beans with Corn – Add a cup of sweet corn kernels for a pop of sweetness and texture.
13. Green Chile Charro Beans – Mix in a small can of diced green chiles for mild heat and tangy flavor.
14. Charro Beans with Bacon Ends – Use bacon ends or pancetta for a richer, meatier flavor.
15. Refried Charro Beans – Mash some of the cooked beans and mix them back in for a thicker, creamier consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use black beans instead of pinto beans?
Yes, black beans can be used, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly. Pinto beans are more traditional and creamier.

2. What is the difference between Charro Beans and Borracho Beans?
Borracho Beans are similar but include beer in the broth for extra flavor. Charro Beans typically use chicken broth.

3. Can I make Charro Beans ahead of time?
Absolutely! They actually taste better the next day as the flavors meld together.

4. How do I make this recipe less spicy?
Use only one jalapeno or omit them entirely. You can also remove all seeds before dicing.

5. Can I use canned beans instead of dry?
Yes, canned pinto beans save time and work perfectly in this quick version.

6. How do I thicken my Charro Beans?
Simmer uncovered for a few more minutes or mash some beans with a spoon to create a thicker texture.

7. What can I serve with Charro Beans?
They go great with tacos, grilled steak, rice, enchiladas, or even cornbread.

8. Can I freeze Charro Beans?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove or microwave.

9. Can I make them without pork?
Yes, simply omit the bacon and ham and substitute with smoked turkey or veggie protein.

10. How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Properly stored, they’ll last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

These Charro Beans are a flavor-packed side dish that captures the essence of authentic Mexican cooking. With their smoky bacon, tender beans, and aromatic spices, they pair beautifully with grilled meats, tacos, or rice. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a summer barbecue, this easy 35-minute recipe is sure to impress. Simple, hearty, and full of traditional flavor—Charro Beans are a must-have on your Mexican menu.

Print