Description
Mexican charro beans bring robust flavors of smoky bacon, hearty pinto beans, and zesty spices dancing together in one comforting pot. Rich southwestern culinary traditions shine through this classic dish that promises warmth and satisfaction with each delicious spoonful.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried pinto beans, rinsed and sorted
- 1/2 pound chorizo, diced
- 1/2 pound smoked turkey, chopped
- 8 cups water (453 milliliters)
Aromatics and Vegetables:
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1 jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
Seasonings and Herbs:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sort and rinse pinto beans thoroughly, removing any debris or damaged kernels. Place beans in a large pot with cold water, ensuring beans are fully submerged by at least 2 inches.
- Bring beans to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce temperature to low. Cover and simmer gently for approximately 2 hours, periodically checking water levels and replenishing liquid to maintain consistent coverage.
- While beans simmer, heat vegetable oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high temperature. Add chorizo and smoked turkey, cooking until chorizo develops a rich, caramelized exterior and turkey is completely heated through.
- Transfer cooked meats using a slotted spoon onto a paper towel-lined plate, allowing excess grease to drain. Retain skillet with remaining meat drippings.
- In the same skillet, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant. Incorporate chopped jalapeños and tomatoes, cooking until vegetables soften and release their natural oils.
- Once beans reach a tender consistency, incorporate the sautéed vegetable mixture, cooked meats, fresh cilantro, ground cumin, and bay leaves. Season generously with salt and black pepper, stirring thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Reduce heat to low and continue simmering for an additional 30-45 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and intensify. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Extract bay leaves before serving. Present Charro Beans piping hot, accompanied by warm tortillas and an assortment of zesty salsas.
Notes
- Soak beans overnight to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility, making them easier on the stomach.
- Select high-quality chorizo for authentic flavor, preferably from a local butcher or specialty store.
- Adjust spice levels by removing jalapeño seeds or adding more for extra heat, catering to different taste preferences.
- Replace smoked turkey with bacon or ham for a traditional version, or use plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian adaptation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 287 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fiber: 9 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg