Charro Beans Recipe (with Video)

Charro Beans Recipe: Charro beans, or “frijoles charros,” are a beloved staple in Mexican cuisine. Originating from northern Mexico, this hearty dish gets its name from the “charros”—Mexican cowboys known for their traditional lifestyle and cuisine. Think of Charro beans as a flavorful, slightly soupy version of baked beans, loaded with smoky meats, aromatic spices, and rich broth. It’s a dish often served at family gatherings, barbecues, or as a satisfying side with tacos and enchiladas.

So, why do people love Charro beans so much? It’s the combination of smoky, savory flavors and tender beans simmered to perfection that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re preparing them for a weekend cookout or a weeknight meal, this guide will walk you through each step.

Ingredients for Charro Beans

To make authentic Charro beans, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Essential Ingredients

• Pinto beans – 2 cups dried (or canned if you’re short on time)
• Bacon – 6-8 slices, chopped
• Chorizo – ½ pound (optional)
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Onion – 1 medium, diced
• Jalapeño – 2, diced (or more if you like heat)
• Tomatoes – 2 large, diced
• Chicken or vegetable broth – 4-6 cups
• Cilantro – ½ cup, chopped
• Salt and pepper – to taste

Spices

• Cumin – 1 tsp
• Oregano – 1 tsp
• Chili powder – 1 tsp

Optional Add-Ins

• Diced ham, smoked sausage, or pork belly
• Beer (for extra depth of flavor)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Don’t worry if you can’t find some ingredients—there are plenty of substitutions and ways to customize the dish based on what’s available in your pantry.

Equipment Needed

Having the right tools makes preparing Charro beans much easier. Here’s what you’ll need:

Basic Equipment

• Large pot (or Dutch oven)
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons

Optional Equipment

• Slow cooker or Instant Pot (for alternative cooking methods)
• Ladle for serving

Now that we’ve gathered everything, let’s move on to preparing the beans.

Preparing the Beans

Properly prepping the beans is crucial to achieving that perfect texture. Dried beans are ideal for this recipe since they absorb more flavor during cooking, but canned beans can work as a shortcut.

Step 1: Soaking the Beans

Soaking beans helps reduce cooking time and makes them easier to digest. Here’s how:

1. Rinse the beans thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.
2. Place them in a large bowl and cover with water (about 2 inches above the beans).
3. Let them soak overnight or for at least 8 hours.

If you forgot to soak the beans, don’t worry! Use the quick soak method:

• Place rinsed beans in a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil for 2 minutes.
• Turn off the heat, cover, and let them sit for 1 hour before draining.

Skipping the soak entirely is an option too, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by at least an hour.

Cooking Methods

There are multiple ways to cook Charro beans, depending on your schedule and equipment.

Stove-Top Method

1. Add soaked beans to a large pot.
2. Cover with broth and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 1.5-2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Slow Cooker Method

1. Add all ingredients to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.

Instant Pot Method

1. Use the sauté function to brown the meat and aromatics.
2. Add the beans, broth, and seasonings.
3. Pressure cook on high for 30-35 minutes, followed by a natural release.

Whichever method you choose, the goal is tender beans with a rich, flavorful broth. Ready for the next steps?

Step 1: Sautéing Aromatics

Aromatics are the foundation of Charro beans. This step builds layers of flavor, so don’t rush it!

1. Heat a tablespoon of oil or bacon grease in your pot.
2. Add diced onions, garlic, and jalapeños. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and softened.
3. If using chorizo, add it here and cook until browned.

By sautéing these ingredients, you unlock their full flavor potential, creating a rich base for the beans.

Step 2: Adding the Meats

Now it’s time to bring in the smoky, savory flavors that make Charro beans so irresistible.

1. Add chopped bacon to the pot and cook until crispy.
2. If you’re using additional meats like ham or sausage, stir them in and cook until browned.
3. Remove excess grease, but leave a little for flavor.

The combination of crispy bacon and tender meat adds depth and richness to the broth.

Step 3: Adding Beans and Liquids

Once the aromatics and meats are ready, it’s time to add the beans and broth. This step is where the dish really starts to come together.

1. Add the soaked and drained beans to the pot. If you’re using canned beans, drain and rinse them first.
2. Pour in the broth—chicken or vegetable broth works best, but water is fine if that’s all you have. Add enough liquid to cover the beans by at least 2 inches.
3. Stir well to combine the ingredients, and bring the mixture to a boil.

The broth is what transforms the beans from plain to flavorful, so don’t skimp on it! If you want a richer taste, you can also add a splash of beer for an extra kick.

Step 4: Seasoning the Beans

Seasoning plays a crucial role in developing that signature Charro bean flavor. Here’s how to season the pot to perfection.

1. Add the following spices:
   • 1 teaspoon of cumin
   • 1 teaspoon of oregano
   • 1 teaspoon of chili powder
   • Salt and pepper to taste
2. Stir everything well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
3. For a deeper, smoky flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce.

Taste the broth and adjust the seasonings as needed. You can always add more spice later, but it’s better to start small and build up the flavors gradually.

Step 5: Simmering the Beans

Now it’s time to let the beans cook low and slow, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Stove-Top Method

• Reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours.
• Stir occasionally to prevent the beans from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• Check the liquid level periodically—if the beans start to dry out, add more broth or water.

Slow Cooker Method

• Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The beans will become tender and infused with flavor.

Instant Pot Method

• After pressure cooking for 30-35 minutes, allow a natural release for about 10-15 minutes.

The key is to simmer until the beans are tender but not mushy. The broth should be flavorful and slightly thickened by the end of the cooking process.

Adding Additional Ingredients

To elevate the flavor and texture of your Charro beans, you can add additional ingredients toward the end of the cooking process.

1. Diced fresh tomatoes – Add these in the last 20-30 minutes of cooking to maintain a fresh, slightly tangy taste.
2. Chopped cilantro – Stir in fresh cilantro right before serving for a burst of freshness.
3. Lime juice – A squeeze of lime can brighten the flavors and balance the richness of the broth.

Optional ingredients like diced bell peppers, green onions, or even a splash of hot sauce can be added based on your personal taste preferences.

Thickening the Broth (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker consistency, there are a couple of ways to achieve it without compromising flavor.

1. Mash a small portion of the beans using a spoon or potato masher, then stir them back into the pot.
2. Create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Add this mixture to the beans and simmer for 5-10 more minutes.

This step is entirely optional, but it can make the dish feel heartier and more comforting.

Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

The final touch is all about presentation and enhancing the flavor with toppings and sides.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges
• Crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese
• Sliced avocado

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the beans with warm tortillas for scooping.
• Pair with cornbread for a Southern twist.
• Serve as a side dish with grilled meats like carne asada or chicken.

Charro beans are versatile—they can be a star of the meal or a complementary side. Either way, they’re guaranteed to impress!

Storing and Reheating Charro Beans

If you have leftovers (or if you’re making a big batch for meal prep), proper storage is key to maintaining the flavor and texture.

1. Let the beans cool completely before storing.
2. Transfer the beans to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
3. For longer storage, freeze the beans in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips

• For stovetop reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the beans from drying out.
• You can also microwave the beans in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

The flavors often deepen after a day or two in the fridge, making leftovers even more delicious!

Tips and Variations

Looking to switch things up or cater to different dietary needs? Here are some tips and variations to try:

Vegan/Vegetarian Option

• Omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead.
• Add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for more texture and flavor.

Spicy Variation

• Add extra jalapeños or serrano peppers for a spicier kick.
• Stir in a few dashes of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.

Regional Variations

• In some regions, Charro beans are made with beer (called “Borracho beans”).
• Others may include smoked meats like ham hocks for a different flavor profile.

Experiment with different ingredients to find the version that you love most!

FAQs about Charro Beans Recipe

What are charro beans?

Charro beans, also known as “frijoles charros,” are a traditional Mexican dish made from pinto beans stewed with onion, garlic, and various meats such as bacon, chorizo, and ham. The beans are flavored with chili peppers, tomatoes, and cilantro, creating a hearty and flavorful dish.

How long does it take to cook charro beans?

The cooking time for charro beans can vary depending on whether you use canned beans or dry beans. If using dry beans, you’ll need to soak them overnight and then cook them for about 2 to 3 hours until they are tender. If using canned beans, the cooking time is reduced to about 30 minutes to 1 hour, as the beans are already cooked.

Can I make charro beans in a slow cooker?

Yes, charro beans are perfect for slow cooking. Simply combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and makes the beans incredibly tender.

Are charro beans spicy?

The spiciness of charro beans can be adjusted to taste. Typically, the dish has a mild to moderate heat level from the chili peppers used. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can remove the seeds from the peppers or use less chili. For a spicier dish, add extra chili peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper.

What do you serve with charro beans?

Charro beans can be served as a main dish or as a side. They pair well with rice, tortillas, and a variety of Mexican dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, and quesadillas. They are also great with a side of guacamole, salsa, and sour cream.

Can I store leftover charro beans?

Yes, leftover charro beans can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure they are stored in an airtight container. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water if necessary to prevent them from drying out.

Conclusion

Congratulations—you’ve just made a hearty, flavorful pot of Charro beans! From soaking the beans to simmering them with aromatic spices and meats, each step contributes to a dish that’s both comforting and versatile. Whether you serve them as a main course or a side dish, Charro beans are sure to be a hit with family and friends.