Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Finished charro beans served in a white bowl with cilantro, lime, and avocado.

Authentic Charro Beans Recipe


  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

A rich, buttery pound cake loaded with crunchy pecans – the perfect signature treat for summer celebrations. This recipe delivers a moist texture and an irresistible flavor that will delight your taste buds.


Ingredients

Scale

2 cups dried pinto beans (or 3 cans, drained and rinsed)

6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped

1/2 lb fresh Mexican chorizo, casings removed

1 small white onion, finely chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 jalapeño or serrano pepper, chopped (optional for spice)

2 medium tomatoes, diced

1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1 tsp ground cumin

Salt and pepper, to taste

6 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth

Optional: 1/2 cup Mexican beer, lime wedges, avocado for garnish


Instructions

1. Prep the Beans:

Soak dried beans overnight or quick-soak, then simmer in fresh water until tender (1 to 1.5 hours). For canned beans, drain and rinse well.

 

2. Cook the Meats:

In a large pot, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside. In the same pot, brown chorizo. Discard excess grease, leaving 1 tbsp in the pot.

 

3. Build the Sofrito:

Sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add jalapeño, cook for 1 minute. Stir in tomatoes and cook down for 5–7 minutes.

 

4. Simmer the Beans:

Add bacon, chorizo, beans, cumin, broth (and beer if using). Simmer uncovered for 30–45 minutes. Season to taste.

 

5. Finish and Serve:

Stir in cilantro before serving. Serve hot with lime or avocado.

Notes

Omit peppers or use mild chorizo for less spice.

Freezes well for up to 3 months.

Add smoked paprika or chipotle for deeper flavor.

Serve with grilled meats, tortillas, or rice.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Side Dish / Main
  • Method: Simmering / One Pot
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 640mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 38mg

Keywords: charro beans recipe, Mexican beans, frijoles charros, summer side dish