If you are craving a hearty, soul-warming dish that ties generations together around the dinner table, look no further than Frijoles Charros: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe for 7 Generations Recipe. This traditional Mexican cowboy beans recipe is a celebration of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors, crafted from simple ingredients that meld into a comforting stew perfect for family gatherings. Every spoonful sings with rich layers of bacon, chorizo, and fresh herbs, making it truly a dish to pass down through the ages.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet vital to creating the authentic taste, texture, and vibrant color that make this recipe a standout. Each element plays a special role, from the creamy pinto beans to the spicy kick of jalapeños, building layers of depth you’ll love.
- 2 cups dried pinto beans: The creamy base of the recipe, soaked overnight to ensure perfect tenderness.
- 6 cups water: The essential cooking liquid that softens the beans just right.
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon: Adds smoky richness and crispy texture that elevates the stew.
- 1/2 pound Mexican chorizo: Brings a spicy, savory punch with a unique blend of seasonings.
- 1 small white onion: Diced finely, it softens and sweetens the dish from within.
- 3 cloves garlic: Minced for aromatic depth and a touch of sharpness.
- 1 jalapeño or serrano pepper: Minced to provide that signature spicy warmth.
- 2 medium tomatoes: Diced fresh for slight acidity and bright color contrast.
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro: Stirred in at the end for fresh herbal notes that balance the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds an earthy, smoky undertone typical of Mexican cooking.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Enhances the herbal flavor profile subtly but effectively.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For gentle heat and flavor complexity.
- Salt to taste: Brings all flavors into harmony.
- 1/2 cup beer (optional): Introduces a malty richness to the broth if you choose to use it.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (optional): Boosts savory depth in the final simmer.
How to Make Frijoles Charros: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe for 7 Generations Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Beans
Start by adding your soaked pinto beans to a large pot along with 6 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let the beans cook uncovered for about 1 to 1.5 hours. Patience here is key—the beans should become perfectly tender but not mushy, setting the foundation for the hearty stew you’re about to build.
Step 2: Crisp the Bacon and Brown the Chorizo
While the beans simmer, take a skillet and cook the chopped thick-cut bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy and golden. Remove and set aside a bit of the rendered fat in the pan, then add the Mexican chorizo, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. This step is where your dish starts to smell irresistible, as that combination of crispy bacon and spicy chorizo creates a robust flavor backbone.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables and Peppers
Using the same skillet with those delicious drippings, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, and minced jalapeño or serrano pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant and the onions soften. This fragrant base brings fresh, bright notes that balance the richness of your bacon and chorizo.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Combine with Beans
Mix the diced tomatoes into the skillet and let them cook down for 2 to 3 minutes. Then, add this whole bacon-chorizo and veggie mixture directly to the pot of simmering beans. Stir in your cumin, oregano, black pepper, and salt to taste. Giving it about 30 minutes more on a low simmer lets all these incredible flavors marry into a rich, comforting stew.
Step 5: Enhance with Broth and Beer (Optional)
If you decide to use beer and chicken broth, pour them in during the last simmering phase. These additions deepen the broth’s complexity and add a slight tang that makes every bite exciting. For the non-drinkers or kids, just chicken broth is a fine alternative that still lifts the flavor profile beautifully.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Cilantro
Right before serving, stir in the chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of herby freshness. Cilantro perfectly cuts through the smoky, spicy layers, rounding out the dish with elegance and vibrance. Now your Frijoles Charros: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe for 7 Generations Recipe is ready to shine!
How to Serve Frijoles Charros: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe for 7 Generations Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Frijoles Charros even more inviting, top with freshly chopped green onions or a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime can also brighten the flavors in an instant. These little touches add a fresh contrast to the hearty beans.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs perfectly with warm corn or flour tortillas, which are excellent for scooping up those juicy beans. For a more filling meal, serve alongside fluffy Mexican rice or simple grilled vegetables. The combination creates a meal that’s as fulfilling as it is flavorful.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve your Frijoles Charros in small rustic clay bowls to enhance the traditional experience. You can also turn leftovers into a delicious topping for nachos or a savory filling for burritos. This recipe’s versatility is part of what makes it a treasured classic passed down through generations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your Frijoles Charros to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 4 days, and the flavors actually meld and intensify overnight, making it even more delicious when reheated.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and it will stay good for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for convenient weeknight comfort food.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. If the stew thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. The taste will still dazzle, just like the first time.
FAQs
Can I use canned beans instead of dried pinto beans?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, canned pinto beans work well, but I recommend rinsing them first to avoid excess salt. Add them towards the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
What can I substitute for Mexican chorizo?
Ground spicy sausage or even ground pork with added smoked paprika and chili powder can stand in for chorizo if you can’t find it. Just adjust seasonings to taste to keep that smoky, spicy vibe.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild to moderate heat level thanks to the jalapeño or serrano pepper. You can dial it up or down by adding more or less pepper, or even swapping for chipotle if you prefer smoky spiciness.
Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit bacon and chorizo, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavors, and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or smoked tofu for extra heartiness.
Why is it called Frijoles Charros?
The name translates to “cowboy beans,” originating from how Mexican cowboys used to prepare this hearty, filling bean stew on the trail. It’s a dish full of tradition and robust flavors meant to power a hard day’s work.
Final Thoughts
If you have been looking for a recipe that connects you to the warmth and spirit of Mexican heritage, Frijoles Charros: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe for 7 Generations Recipe is a must-try. Rich, comforting, and packed with flavor, it’s the kind of dish that invites sharing, storytelling, and more than a few repeat servings. I hope you enjoy making and savoring this treasured family classic as much as I do!
Print
Frijoles Charros: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe for 7 Generations Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Frijoles Charros is a traditional Mexican cowboy bean stew packed with hearty flavors from pinto beans, bacon, chorizo, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices. Perfect as a side dish or main accompaniment, this recipe simmers tender beans with a savory bacon-chorizo mixture and fresh herbs for a comforting and authentic taste that has been enjoyed for generations.
Ingredients
Beans and Broth
- 2 cups dried pinto beans (rinsed and soaked overnight)
- 6 cups water
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup beer (optional)
Meat and Aromatics
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon (chopped)
- 1/2 pound Mexican chorizo (casings removed)
- 1 small white onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 jalapeño or serrano pepper (minced)
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 2 medium tomatoes (diced)
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Beans: In a large pot, combine the soaked pinto beans with 6 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender.
- Prepare the Bacon and Chorizo: While the beans cook, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Add the chorizo to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon.
- Sauté Aromatics: To the bacon and chorizo in the skillet, add diced onion, minced garlic, and minced jalapeño. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until fragrant and softened.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes with the aromatic mixture and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the bacon-chorizo mixture into the pot of simmering beans. Add ground cumin, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt to taste. Stir everything together well.
- Simmer to Absorb Flavors: Let the combined ingredients simmer together for 30 more minutes to allow the flavors to blend. During this time, optionally add beer and chicken broth for a richer broth.
- Finish and Serve: Just before serving, stir in the chopped cilantro. Serve the frijoles charros hot alongside warm tortillas or rice.
Notes
- Frijoles Charros taste even better the next day; refrigerate leftovers and reheat gently.
- For a heartier dish, add diced ham, hot dogs, or smoked sausage.
- Increase the spice level by adding more jalapeños or chipotle peppers.
