How to Make Easy 'Charro' Beans - A Step-by-Step Guide

Charro beans, also known as cowboy beans, are a popular dish in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. These flavorful beans are typically made with pinto beans, bacon, onions, and a variety of spices, making them a hearty and satisfying side dish or main course. Best of all, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time.

One of the best things about charro beans is their versatility. They can be enjoyed as a side dish alongside your favorite Me...

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Ingredients

  • ½ pound bacon strips
  • ½ cup bacon drippings
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • ½ pound cooked ham, diced
  • ¼ pound chorizo sausage, crumbled
  • 5 (16 ounce) cans pinto beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 whole chipotle pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, pricked with a fork

Information

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 40 mins
  • Total Time: 55 mins
  • Servings: 10
  • Yield: 10 servings

  • Fry bacon strips in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp. With a slotted spoon, remove bacon to paper towels. Reserve 1/2 cup bacon drippings.
  • Place drippings in a large pot, and warm over medium heat. Fry onions until light brown. Stir in ham and chorizo. Reserve 1 cup of beans, and add the rest to the pot, along with the chipotle and garlic.
  • Mash the reserved beans, then add to the pot. Simmer beans until thick and soupy, about 30 minutes. (If the beans become too dry, stir in water). Remove chipotle and garlic, and serve.
  • Nutrition

    458 cal.

    • Total Fat: 25g
    • Saturated Fat: 9g
    • Cholesterol: 42mg
    • Sodium: 1298mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 37g
    • Dietary Fiber: 11g
    • Total Sugars: 1g
    • Protein: 21g
    • Vitamin C: 11mg
    • Calcium: 106mg
    • Iron: 4mg
    • Potassium: 734mg