Ingredients:
- 2 cups of pinto beans, dried
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 jalapeño peppers, seeds removed and finely chopped
- 1 cup of chopped tomatoes
- 1 cup of chopped cilantro
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of salt (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups of water or chicken broth
Step 1:
Start by rinsing the dried pinto beans under cold water until the water runs clear. Then, soak the beans in water overnight or for at least 6 hours. This process helps soften the beans and reduce cooking time.
Step 2:
In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and renders its fat. Remove the bacon from the pot, leaving behind the fat.
Step 3:
Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, and jalapeño peppers to the pot, and sauté them in the bacon fat until they become soft and fragrant. This step adds depth of flavor to the beans.
Step 4:
Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot along with the cooked bacon. Pour in the water or chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a boil. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
Step 5:
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the beans simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until they are tender. Stir occasionally and add more liquid if necessary.
Step 6:
Once the beans are cooked, add the chopped tomatoes, cilantro, cumin, and salt. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and let them simmer for an additional 15 minutes. This final step enhances the flavor of the beans and adds freshness to the dish.
Step 7:
Serve the Frijoles Charros hot with warm tortillas or alongside your favorite Mexican dishes. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired. Enjoy the authentic flavors of Mexico!
Now that you have mastered the art of preparing authentic Mexican Frijoles Charros, you can impress your family and friends with this delightful dish. Whether you are hosting a Mexican-themed dinner party or simply craving a taste of Mexico, Frijoles Charros is the perfect choice. Buen provecho!