As I blended the comforting aroma of simmering beans with the rich scents of bacon and spices, I felt instantly transported to a lively backyard fiesta. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for Tender and Creamy Borracho Beans (Frijoles Borrachos), a traditional Mexican dish bursting with robust flavors and textures. Not only is this dish perfect for meal prepping and backyard barbecues, but it also makes for an indulgent side that can easily steal the spotlight on your dinner table. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just looking to elevate your weeknight dinners, these beans will have your loved ones asking for seconds. Ready to make your kitchen come alive with the vibrant taste of Mexico? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
What Makes Borracho Beans So Special?
Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of beer, bacon, and spices infuses these beans with a rich, savory taste that will tantalize your taste buds.
Effortless Meal Prep: Perfect for busy days, Borracho Beans can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. Just heat and serve to enjoy homemade comfort.
Versatile Dish: Whether as a hearty side or a main dish paired with grilled meats or a fresh salad, these beans fit seamlessly into any meal. Try them with Pan Green Beans for a complete spread!
Crowd-Pleaser: Hosting a barbecue or family dinner? These beans are sure to impress with their vibrant flavor and inviting aroma. They’ll have everyone asking for your secret!
Customizable Goodness: With easy swaps like using canned beans or turkey bacon, you can cater to different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Borracho Beans Ingredients
For the Beans
• Dried Pinto Beans – Soak overnight for the best creamy texture and to ensure even cooking.
• Bacon – Adds a delightful smokiness; can substitute with liquid smoke for a vegetarian option.
• Yellow Onion – Softens during cooking, adding a base flavor to your fragrant dish.
• Jalapeño – Adjust this spicy pepper based on your heat preference for a perfect kick!
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic is essential for enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Ancho Chile Powder – Imparts unique, smoky heat; substitute regular chili powder if necessary.
• Ground Cumin – This earthy spice accentuates the dish’s Mexican heritage beautifully.
• Mexican Oregano – Offers floral and slightly citrus notes; regular oregano works too.
• Bay Leaves – These leaves impart subtle flavor during simmering; don’t forget to remove before serving!
• Dark Lager (e.g., Negro Modelo) – Deepens the broth’s richness; use gluten-free beer or broth as a non-alcoholic substitute.
• Chicken Broth/Water – Provides the essential cooking liquid; vegetable broth is great for a vegetarian version.
• Chicken Bouillon Cube – Adds extra depth; skip it for a gluten-free version.
• Kosher Salt – Adjust to taste, as it enhances all the flavors in your Borracho Beans.
For the Pico de Gallo
• White Onion – Finely diced to add a crunch with a mild flavor.
• Tomatoes – Use ripe tomatoes for the freshest taste; they brighten up the dish!
• Jalapeño – Adds freshness and heat; adjust based on your spice tolerance.
• Cilantro – This herb adds a vibrant, fresh element that brings it all together.
• Lime – Fresh lime juice balances the flavors with a zesty kick.
Dive into the vibrant flavors of Borracho Beans with these ingredients and watch your kitchen come alive with the warm, delectable aromas!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Borracho Beans
Step 1: Soak the Beans
Rinse 1 pound of dried pinto beans thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris. Place the beans in a large bowl, covering them with salted water, and soak them for at least 8 hours or overnight. This step softens the beans and enhances their creaminess, setting the stage for your delicious Borracho Beans.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a heavy-duty Dutch oven, cook 6 diced bacon slices over medium-low heat for about 8-10 minutes until they are crispy and golden. Stir often to ensure even cooking, allowing the bacon fat to render into the pan. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the flavorful fat in the pot.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add 1 chopped yellow onion and 1-2 diced jalapeños to the bacon fat, sautéing on medium heat for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of ancho chile powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of Mexican oregano, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant and the spices bloom.
Step 4: Simmer the Beans
Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot along with 12 ounces of dark lager, 4 cups of chicken broth, 2 bay leaves, and 1 chicken bouillon cube. Season with kosher salt to taste, stir well, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 90 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Thicken the Stew
After 90 minutes, uncover the pot and continue to simmer the Borracho Beans for an additional 30 minutes. This allows the liquid to reduce and thicken, creating a rich, hearty broth. Stir occasionally, checking the beans for tenderness; they should be creamy and soft by the end of this phase.
Step 6: Prepare the Pico de Gallo
In a separate bowl, combine 1 diced white onion, 2 diced tomatoes, 1 finely chopped jalapeño, and a handful of chopped cilantro. Squeeze the juice of 1 lime over the mixture and toss to combine. Let the pico de gallo sit for at least 1 hour to meld the flavors, providing a fresh contrast to the savory Borracho Beans.
Step 7: Finish the Borracho Beans
Once the beans are tender and the broth is thickened, taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. Remove the bay leaves and fold in half of the prepared pico de gallo before serving. Garnish the Borracho Beans with additional pico de gallo and cilantro for a bright, flavorful finish that enhances the dish’s comforting richness.
Borracho Beans Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful Borracho Beans to suit your taste or dietary needs!
- Canned Beans: Use canned pinto beans for a quick option; reduce cooking time to just 40 minutes.
- Vegetarian Bacon: Swap bacon for turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian twist that’s still packed with flavor.
- Beer Swap: For a gluten-free version, substitute dark lager with gluten-free beer or vegetable broth; the taste will still be luscious.
- Extra Veggie Power: Add bell peppers or corn to the mix! These will provide added texture and a hint of sweetness that balances the savory notes.
- Heat Levels: For more heat, toss in some chopped serrano peppers along with the jalapeño; you can adjust based on your preference.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment by adding fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme during the last few minutes of cooking for a fragrant finish.
- Creamy Touch: Stir in a bit of cream or sour cream at the end for a richer, creamier texture that’s utterly delicious.
- Spice Boost: For a deeper flavor, try incorporating smoked paprika or a dash of chipotle in adobo, giving a lovely smoky finish!
And if you’re looking for even more delicious pairings, don’t forget to check out these tasty Pan Green Beans or serve with some zesty cilantro lime chicken for a complete meal!
How to Store and Freeze Borracho Beans
Fridge: Store leftover Borracho Beans in an airtight container for up to one week. This keeps their delicious flavors intact and makes for effortless meal prep!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooled Borracho Beans in airtight containers for up to six months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating for optimal taste and texture.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the beans on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to restore creaminess.
Airtight Containers: Always use airtight containers for storing and freezing to prevent freezer burn and to keep the flavors of your Borracho Beans fresh.
Expert Tips for Borracho Beans
• Soak Properly: Make sure to soak your dried pinto beans overnight. This ensures they cook evenly and achieve that creamy texture everyone loves.
• Use Quality Beer: The choice of beer impacts the flavor significantly. Dark lagers enrich the broth, but feel free to use gluten-free beer for an equally good taste.
• Check for Tenderness: During the simmering process, taste the beans periodically. They should be tender but not too mushy; adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Avoid Over-Salting: Start with a modest amount of kosher salt. You can always add more later, but it’s difficult to fix salty Borracho Beans.
• Make It Ahead: These beans are perfect for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
• Customization is Key: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices or herbs! Borracho Beans are versatile and can accommodate your taste preferences.
What to Serve with Tender and Creamy Borracho Beans?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing these luscious beans with delightful accompaniments that enhance their rich flavors.
- Fresh Corn Tortillas: Serve warm, soft tortillas for scooping up the beans, adding a comforting touch to each bite.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: This zesty side dish complements the beans’ earthy flavors, providing brightness and a perfect contrast.
- Grilled Shrimp Tacos: Succulent shrimp tacos paired with these Borracho Beans create a festive, satisfying meal perfect for gatherings.
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote): The creaminess of elote enhances the rustic flavor of the beans, making your meal more vibrant and enjoyable.
- Barbecue Chicken: Smoky grilled chicken pulls together the meal, offering a contrast to the beans while echoing their delightful smokiness.
- Avocado Salad: Fresh avocado tossed with tomato and lime delivers a cooling element, brightening the ensemble with each bite.
- Spicy Chorizo: Sizzling chorizo adds a zesty pop that beautifully pairs with the creamy texture of the beans, creating a delicious medley.
- Margaritas: Sip on refreshing margaritas alongside your beans; the tartness balances the richness and adds a festive flair.
- Flan or Tres Leches Cake: End your meal with a creamy dessert, offering sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory beans.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Tender and Creamy Borracho Beans ahead of time is a game-changer for busy home cooks! You can soak the pinto beans up to 24 hours in advance, which not only softens them but also enhances their creamy texture. Additionally, the cooked beans will stay delicious in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure you cool them completely before refrigerating to maintain flavor and prevent spoilage. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the beans in a pot over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the consistency. This way, you’ll enjoy the same restaurant-quality results with minimal effort on hectic weeknights!
Borracho Beans Recipe FAQs
What type of pinto beans should I use for Borracho Beans?
For the best creamy texture, I recommend using dried pinto beans soaked overnight. This ensures even cooking and enhances the flavor. If you’re short on time, canned pinto beans are a suitable alternative; just reduce the cooking time to about 40 minutes.
How should I store leftover Borracho Beans?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This keeps the flavors intact and makes it easier to enjoy homemade comfort on busy days.
Can I freeze Borracho Beans, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! Cool the Borracho Beans completely, then transfer them to airtight containers or freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to six months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
What if my Borracho Beans are too thick after cooking?
If you find your beans are too thick, no worries! Just add a bit of broth or water while simmering to loosen the consistency. Stir well and let it heat through until you reach your desired thickness.
Are Borracho Beans gluten-free?
Yes, Borracho Beans can definitely be gluten-free! Use a gluten-free dark lager or substitute with additional broth. Just be sure to check the labels on any added ingredients, like bouillon, to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
Can my pet enjoy Borracho Beans?
While beans can be a safe treat in small quantities, it’s best to be cautious. Avoid adding any seasonings, especially garlic and onion, which can be harmful to pets. Always consult your vet before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.
Heavenly Borracho Beans for Ultimate Comfort Food Lovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse the dried pinto beans, soak them in salted water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- Cook diced bacon in a Dutch oven over medium-low heat until crispy; remove bacon and leave fat.
- Sauté chopped onion and jalapeños in the bacon fat until softened, then add garlic and spices.
- Add the soaked beans, dark lager, chicken broth, bay leaves, bouillon, and salt; bring to boil, then simmer for 90 minutes.
- Uncover and continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes for a thicker broth.
- Prepare pico de gallo by mixing diced onion, tomatoes, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice; let sit for 1 hour.
- Once beans are tender, adjust seasonings, remove bay leaves, and mix in half of the pico de gallo.
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