Ingredients:
- 1 pound of pinto beans
- 8 ounces of bacon, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and diced
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Step 1: Soak the Beans
Place the pinto beans in a large bowl and cover them with water. Allow them to soak overnight. This step will ensure that your beans cook evenly and have a tender texture.
Step 2: Cook the Beans
Drain the soaked beans and rinse them thoroughly. In a large pot, add the beans and enough water to cover them. Bring the pot to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 1-2 hours or until the beans are tender.
Step 3: Sauté the Bacon and Aromatics
In a separate large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving the rendered fat behind. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced jalapeno peppers to the skillet. Sauté them until they are softened and fragrant.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Add the cooked bacon, sautéed aromatics, canned diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, and oregano to the pot with the cooked beans. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for an additional 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Taste the Frijoles Charros and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Garnish the dish with some fresh chopped cilantro for added freshness and color. Serve the beans as a main course or as a side dish to complement your favorite Mexican dishes.
Now that you know the secrets to making mouthwatering Frijoles Charros, it’s time to try this beloved Mexican recipe yourself. Grab your apron, gather the ingredients, and let the flavors of Mexico transport you to culinary bliss. Happy cooking!