Charro Beans Recipe

Charro beans are one of my favorite ways to prepare black or pinto beans. It reminds me of my childhood eating Santa Maria style barbecue in Central California. These flavorful beans always accompanied the BBQ tri-tip, ribs, and chicken that Santa Maria style is known for.

I don't remember them being called charro beans as a kid. They were really just called barbecue beans, but then I went to San Antonio on vacation as an adult and had a meal where these beans were served. The second I had a bite of them, my entire childhood came flashing back. You got to love it when some flavor or smell causes that.

Now that I knew the beans had a name, I experimented with a variety of recipes before finally perfecting it just the way I like it. Definitely give these a try.

Ingredients

• 2 14oz cans pinto or chili beans or 1/2 pound dried beans
• 4 oz diced bacon (optional)
• 1 cup diced onions (1/2 medium size onion)
• 2-3 cloves chopped garlic or 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp diced chipotle peppers with adobo sauce
• 10oz can Rotel tomatoes
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp oregano
• salt to taste (may need +/- 1/4 tsp if beans are unsalted)
• 1/2 tbsp lime juice
• 2 tbsp diced fresh cilantro (optional)
• Diced avocado to turn into a complete meal (optional)

Directions

• If using dried beans, cook using the Pressure Cooking method or my Low and Slow method (without bay leaves). Once completed or if using canned beans, drain them and set aside.
• Heat a large stock pot over medium heat and cook the bacon until it starts to brown and the fat is rendered.
• Remove bacon and excess oil but leave 1-2 tbsp for the next steps.
• Add the onions and cook until soft and translucent.
• Add Rotel tomatoes, garlic, chipotle peppers, and spices and cook until liquid is evaporated.
• Add water, drained beans, and cooked bacon pieces.
• Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes uncovered to heat everything through and allow the flavors to meld.
• Remove from heat, add lime juice, taste for salt level and adjust. Stir in fresh cilantro if desired and serve.

Inspirational Reference Websites

• https://www.midcenturymatchamama.com/tequilla-beans-aj-spurs-inspired