Get ready to experience the rich flavors of Mexico with these 18 mouth-watering Frijoles Charros recipes! Also known as Cowboy Beans, this classic dish has been a staple in Mexican cuisine for generations. With its hearty combination of tender beans, savory meats, and aromatic spices, it’s no wonder why Frijoles Charros is a beloved favorite among many.
Whether you’re looking to spice up your meals with bold flavors or seeking comfort food that warms the heart, we’ve got you covered with this diverse collection of recipes. From classic combinations featuring bacon and chorizo to vegetarian options loaded with smoked paprika and fresh cilantro, there’s something for every palate and cooking style.
In the following pages, we’ll delve into the world of Frijoles Charros and explore the many ways you can enjoy this delicious dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
Classic Frijoles Charros with Bacon and Chorizo
This hearty bean dish is a staple of Mexican cuisine, typically served alongside carne asada or other grilled meats. This recipe adds the smoky depth of bacon and spicy kick of chorizo to create a flavorful and satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 pound Mexican chorizo, casings removed and crumbled
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the soaked pinto beans, chorizo, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
4. Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1-2 hours or until the beans are tender.
5. Add the cooked bacon back into the pot and stir to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Spicy Frijoles Charros with Jalapeños and Chipotle
This recipe is a twist on traditional Frijoles Charros, adding a spicy kick from jalapeños and chipotle peppers. The result is a flavorful and bold black bean dish that pairs well with grilled meats or as a side.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 jalapeños, diced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, jalapeños, and chipotle pepper in olive oil until softened.
2. Add the soaked black beans, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Slow-Cooker Frijoles Charros with Beer
These rich and flavorful beans are a staple of Mexican cuisine, perfect for any occasion. This slow-cooker recipe uses beer to add depth and complexity to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto or black beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beer (any type)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or other hot peppers for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine beans, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, beer, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Vegetarian Frijoles Charros with Smoked Paprika
Frijoles charros, a popular Mexican dish, gets a vegetarian twist with the addition of smoked paprika. This flavorful and spicy recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the soaked pinto beans, diced red bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes and stir again.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Frijoles Charros with Pork Ribs and Fresh Cilantro
This hearty recipe combines tender pork ribs with creamy pinto beans, flavorful onions, and a hint of cumin. Perfect for a comforting meal or as an accompaniment to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork ribs
– 1 cup dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, cook pork ribs in boiling water until tender, about 20-25 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add soaked pinto beans, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
5. Add cooked pork ribs back into the pot, stirring gently to combine with the bean mixture.
6. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until beans are tender.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes
Easy One-Pot Frijoles Charros with Sausage
This hearty one-pot dish combines the flavors of Mexico with the comfort of a warm, satisfying meal. Frijoles charros is a classic Mexican recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet sausage (such as chorizo or Italian sausage), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup dried black beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and soaked black beans. Stir to combine.
6. Return the sausage to the pot and bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Frijoles Charros con Queso (Cheesy Charro Beans)
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this rich and creamy bean dish, perfect for a comforting meal or as a side to your favorite Mexican dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine pinto beans, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper.
2. Add water to cover the ingredients by about an inch. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until beans are tender.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
Frijoles Charros with Chicken and Roasted Tomatoes
This recipe combines the rich flavors of charro beans, roasted tomatoes, and juicy chicken for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried black beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups roasted tomatoes (see note)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add soaked black beans, roasted tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender.
7. Add cooked chicken back into the pot; stir to combine.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Smoky Frijoles Charros with Chipotle and Bacon
This recipe adds a smoky twist to traditional charro beans by incorporating chipotle peppers and crispy bacon. The result is a rich, complex flavor profile that’s perfect for topping tacos or using as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine soaked pinto beans, diced onion, minced garlic, chopped chipotle peppers, crumbled bacon, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Beefy Frijoles Charros with Ground Beef and Green Chiles
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional cowboy beans, this recipe combines ground beef, green chiles, and tender beans for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 green chile peppers, roasted and chopped (see note)
– Water or beef broth for cooking beans
Instructions:
1. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, and cumin; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, pinto beans, salt, and pepper. Add water or broth to cover beans by 2 inches.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until beans are tender.
5. Stir in chopped cilantro and roasted green chiles. Simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro and green chiles if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Frijoles Charros with Ham Hock and Epazote
A classic Mexican dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in, Frijoles Charros with Ham Hock and Epazote is a flavorful and hearty bean stew. This recipe combines tender beans, savory ham hocks, and the unmistakable flavor of epazote to create a truly authentic experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 ham hock, smoked or cured
– 1 teaspoon ground epazote
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add soaked pinto beans, chicken broth, water, ham hock, epazote, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours or until beans are tender.
3. Remove ham hock; shred meat from bone and return to pot.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Frijoles Charros with Fresh Corn and Poblano Peppers
This recipe puts a flavorful spin on classic frijoles charros by adding the sweetness of fresh corn and the smokiness of roasted poblano peppers. The result is a hearty, savory dish perfect for serving alongside your favorite Mexican-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels
– 2 large poblano peppers, roasted and chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 cups water or chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add the chopped red bell pepper and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the soaked pinto beans, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the water or chicken broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until beans are tender.
5. Stir in the fresh corn kernels and roasted poblano peppers. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Frijoles Charros with Pickled Jalapeños and Cotija Cheese
This classic Mexican dish is a staple at many gatherings, and the addition of tangy pickled jalapeños and crumbly Cotija cheese elevates it to new heights. These flavorful black beans are simmered in a rich tomato-based broth, then topped with crispy bacon and a sprinkle of queso fresco.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried black beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– Pickled Jalapeños (recipe below)
– Cotija cheese, crumbled
Pickled Jalapeño Recipe:
– 2 jalapeños, sliced
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until tender.
2. Add the soaked black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
3. Stir in the crumbled bacon and top with pickled Jalapeños and Cotija cheese.
Cooking time: 1 hour
Instant Pot Frijoles Charros with Chorizo and Garlic
Frijoles charros are a classic Mexican dish that combines tender pinto beans, flavorful chorizo sausage, and aromatic garlic. This Instant Pot recipe simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy this comforting meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and cook the chorizo until browned, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add onion, bell pepper, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add soaked pinto beans, diced tomatoes, and water (if needed) to the Instant Pot. Stir well.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 30-40 minutes or until beans are tender.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Frijoles Charros with Crispy Pork Belly and Lime
This recipe combines the traditional Mexican dish, Frijoles Charros (bean stew), with crispy pork belly and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for added depth and brightness. Perfect as a main course or as a side dish to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried black beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 limes, juiced
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add soaked black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Add pork belly pieces and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pork is crispy and the beans are tender.
6. Squeeze lime juice over the top and garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Frijoles Charros with Roasted Poblanos and Cream
This recipe combines the classic flavors of frijoles charros (charro beans) with the rich, smoky taste of roasted poblanos and a dollop of cream. Perfect for a comforting and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 2 poblano peppers, roasted (see notes)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine soaked pinto beans, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, roasted poblanos, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add enough water to cover the mixture by 2 inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until beans are tender.
3. Stir in heavy cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Notes:
To roast poblano peppers, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes or until skin is blistered and charred. Peel off skin, seed, and chop.
Frijoles Charros with Shredded Beef and Guajillo Chile
A traditional Mexican dish, Frijoles Charros (Charro Beans) is a hearty, flavorful stew made with pinto beans, shredded beef, and dried chilies. This recipe adds the deep, slightly sweet flavor of Guajillo chiles to give it an extra boost.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 pounds shredded beef (such as brisket or chuck)
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 dried Guajillo chilies, stemmed and seeded
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine soaked pinto beans, shredded beef, onions, garlic, and Guajillo chilies.
2. Add cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Pour in the water and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours or until the beans are tender.
5. Serve hot with warm tortillas, shredded cheese, and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Frijoles Charros with Smoked Sausage and Bell Peppers
A hearty, flavorful Mexican dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing brunch. This recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked sausage, bell peppers, and pinto beans in a savory stew.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as Andouille or chorizo), sliced
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the pinto beans and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of Mexico with these 18 hearty Frijoles Charros recipes! From classic combinations like bacon and chorizo to innovative twists featuring chipotle, smoked paprika, and more, there’s something for every taste. Discover slow-cooked versions, one-pot wonders, and instant pot shortcuts to make mealtime a breeze. Whether you’re a fan of meaty additions or vegetarian options, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So why wait? Dive into the world of Frijoles Charros and experience the irresistible flavor for yourself!