Frijoles Borrachitos-Beans with Beer Recipe

Howdy, folks! Today I’m going to share with you my recipe for Frijoles Borrachitos, also known as Drunken Beans. This traditional Mexican dish made with pinto beans simmered in beer and bacon is something that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

I first discovered this dish while working in a small town in Texas. I quickly became enamored with the rich and bold flavors of the beans, and I knew I had to recreate it in my own kitchen. After many years of tweaking and perfecting the recipe, I’m excited to share it with you.

This dish is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it as a side dish, on top of rice or even as a main course. It’s perfect for large gatherings or a cozy night in with your family. So, grab a cold Mexican beer, let’s get started, and I promise you won’t be disappointed!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Are you tired of the same old, boring bean recipes? Look no further than Frijoles Borrachitos, also known as Drunken Beans or Borracho Beans. This traditional Mexican dish is made with dried pinto beans simmered in beer for a flavorful and unique twist on a classic recipe.

One of the reasons you’ll love this recipe is its versatility. Frijoles Borrachitos can be served as a side dish or as a hearty main course. It’s perfect for potlucks, BBQs, and family dinners. The dish is also a great option for vegans or those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.

But what really sets Frijoles Borrachitos apart is the combination of savory and spicy flavors. The bacon, onion, and garlic add depth and richness to the dish, while the diced tomato and cilantro bring a fresh, bright flavor. The chili powder and crushed red pepper flakes give the beans a kick of heat, making them the perfect addition to any Tex-Mex or Southwestern-style meal.

Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also easy to make. Simply soak the dried pinto beans overnight, then cook them in a large pot with beer, chicken broth, and a few key spices. Let the beans simmer until they’re tender and flavorful, then serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional Mexican cuisine or just looking for a new recipe to try, Frijoles Borrachitos is the perfect dish. Its unique flavor profile and easy preparation make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. So grab a cold Mexican beer and get ready to indulge in some seriously delicious beans!

Ingredient List

Here are the ingredients you will need to make this flavorful dish of Frijoles Borrachitos or Drunken Beans. These beans are also known as Borracho Beans or Frijoles Borrachos and are a traditional Mexican dish made with pinto beans simmered in beer. Don’t worry if you don’t have all the ingredients, as there are plenty of substitutions and variations possible for this recipe.

Main Ingredients

Dried Pinto Beans: 1 lb
Mexican Beer: 2 cups
Water: 8 cups
Bacon: 2 slices
Onion: 1 white onion, finely chopped
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Jalapeno: 1, diced
Tomato: 1, diced

Spices

Salt: 1 tsp
Chili Powder: 1 tsp
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 tsp

Garnishes

Cilantro: Fresh, chopped

You can easily find all the ingredients at your local grocery store. If you are vegan or vegetarian, you can leave out the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. If you are short on time, you can use canned pinto beans or even leftover refried beans. However, the taste and texture of the dish may differ slightly.

The Recipe How-To

Step 1: Soak the beans

To start off this beans frijoles borrachos recipe, you will need to soak 1 pound of dry pinto beans in a large pot overnight. Make sure you cover the beans with at least 2 inches of water. After soaking, drain the beans and rinse them under cold water.

Step 2: Cook the bacon and onion

In a large pot, cook 2-3 slices of bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside for later. In the same pot, add 1 diced white onion and cook until translucent.

Step 3: Add garlic and jalapeno

Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 minced jalapeno to the pot and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Add the beans and liquid

Add the soaked beans to the pot with the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in 8 cups of water or a mixture of water and chicken broth or beer for extra flavor. You can also use a slow cooker or a pressure cooker for this recipe.

Step 5: Simmer the beans

Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer for 2-3 hours until they are tender. If using a slow cooker or pressure cooker, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cooking times.

Step 6: Add the tomatoes and seasonings

Once the beans are tender, add 1 diced tomato, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the pot. Crumble the cooked bacon and add it back to the pot as well.

Step 7: Simmer with beer

Pour in 1 can of Mexican beer to the pot and let the beans simmer for an additional 30 minutes to an hour. This will give the frijoles borrachos a delicious and unique flavor.

Step 8: Serve and enjoy

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve the drunken beans frijoles hot with your favorite toppings such as cheese, sour cream, or diced onion. This traditional Mexican dish made with pinto beans simmered in beer and bacon onions is perfect for any occasion.

Substitutions and Variations

If you’re looking to switch things up with this recipe, there are many substitutions and variations you can try out. Here are some ideas:

– Vegetarian or vegan: To make this recipe vegetarian or vegan, simply omit the bacon and substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also use canned beans if you’re short on time.

– Spicier: If you like your food with a bit more heat, add extra diced jalapeno or crushed red pepper flakes to the recipe.

– Texas-style: For a more traditional Texas-style borracho beans recipe, use chili powder instead of cilantro and add diced green bell pepper to the mix.

– Charro beans: If you want to make charro beans, add diced tomato, garlic, and sliced jalapenos to the recipe. You can also include diced ham or sausage for added flavor.

– Baked beans: For a twist on the recipe, try baking the beans with extra toppings like shredded cheese, diced onion, and breadcrumbs.

– Pressure cooker: If you’re short on time, you can use a pressure cooker instead of a slow cooker. Simply follow the instructions for your pressure cooker and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

– Bean soup: If you prefer a soupier consistency, add more chicken broth or water to the recipe.

– Refried beans: You can also use this recipe to make refried beans by mashing the cooked beans with a potato masher or fork until they are the desired consistency.

Overall, this recipe is very versatile and can be adapted to suit your personal preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make it your own.

Serving and Pairing

Once your Frijoles Borrachitos are cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve them up and enjoy! This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. One of the most popular ways to serve Frijoles Borrachitos is as a side dish to your favorite Mexican main course. The rich, savory flavors of the beans are the perfect complement to spicy dishes like enchiladas, tacos, or fajitas.

Frijoles Borrachitos also make a great addition to any backyard BBQ or potluck. The hearty beans can be served as a main dish, topped with fresh cilantro, diced tomato, and a dollop of sour cream. You can also scoop them onto a plate of rice or pair them with some freshly baked cornbread for a complete meal.

For a truly authentic Mexican dish, serve your Frijoles Borrachitos as part of a traditional charro beans recipe. This cowboy-style dish is made with bacon, onion, garlic, chili powder, and chicken broth, and is simmered for hours until the beans are tender and flavorful. Add a few spoonfuls of Frijoles Borrachitos to the mix for an extra boost of flavor and a bit of drunken fun.

If you’re looking for a vegan or vegetarian option, Frijoles Borrachitos can easily be adapted to suit your dietary needs. Simply substitute the bacon for a plant-based alternative, such as tempeh or vegan bacon bits. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a completely meat-free dish.

No matter how you choose to serve your Frijoles Borrachitos, be sure to pair them with a frosty, cold beer. The rich, bold flavors of the beans are perfectly complemented by a dark, flavorful Mexican beer like Negra Modelo or Dos Equis. So, grab a cold one, dig in, and enjoy!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

One of the best things about Frijoles Borrachitos is that they can be made ahead of time and reheated later. This is a great option for busy weeknights or for those who like to meal prep ahead of time.

To make ahead of time, simply follow the recipe instructions and let the beans cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or in the freezer for up to three months.

When reheating the beans, you can do so on the stovetop or in the microwave. To reheat on the stovetop, place the beans in a large pot and add a splash of chicken broth or water. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the beans are warmed through.

To reheat in the microwave, place the beans in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a lid or plastic wrap. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

If you find that the beans are too thick or dry when reheating, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin them out.

Frijoles Borrachitos are also great for leftovers. They can be used as a side dish for your next meal or as a topping for nachos or a taco salad. The possibilities are endless!

Tips for Perfect Results

When it comes to making Frijoles Borrachitos or Drunken Beans, the beans are the star of the show. So it’s important to start with good quality beans. I always recommend using dried pinto beans instead of canned beans. Dried beans have a firmer texture and absorb more flavor. Here are some tips for getting the perfect borracho beans every time.

First, make sure you soak the beans overnight. This will help soften them and shorten the cooking time. Rinse and drain the beans before adding them to the pot.

When it comes to the beer, I recommend using a Mexican beer like Modelo or Tecate. The flavor of the beer will infuse into the beans, giving them a unique taste. If you don’t have beer, you can also use chicken broth, but the flavor won’t be as rich.

To add more depth of flavor to your Frijoles Borrachitos, try adding diced bacon or ham. Cook the bacon or ham in the pot before adding the onions and garlic. The salty, smoky flavor will complement the beans perfectly.

For a spicier version of borracho beans, add a jalapeño pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. If you prefer a milder version, omit the pepper altogether.

If you’re short on time, you can use a pressure cooker or slow cooker to make Frijoles Borrachitos. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cooking times.

Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and garnishes. I like to top my borracho beans with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve them with warm tortillas or alongside your favorite Mexican dish.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to make delicious Frijoles Borrachitos every time.

FAQ

Now that you know how to cook this savory and flavorful Frijoles Borrachitos recipe, you might have some questions or doubts. Don’t worry; in this section, I will answer some of the most common questions and concerns that people have when making this dish. Keep reading to have a perfect result in your kitchen!

What’s the difference between charro beans and borracho beans?

When it comes to Tex-Mex cuisine, charro beans and borracho beans are two types of dishes that are often compared to each other. Despite their similarities, there is a key difference between these two recipes. While charro beans are typically cooked in broth or water, borracho beans are made with beer. So, if you’re looking to add a boozy twist to your beans, borracho beans might be the way to go.

What are borracho beans made of?

Looking for a delicious and easy Mexican dish? Try making some Borracho Beans or Frijoles Borrachos! These beans are cooked in a flavorful beer broth with bacon, onions, tomatoes and spices, resulting in a tender and creamy texture. Perfectly paired with some cornbread or flour tortillas, they make for a mouthwatering Tex-Mex dinner. So, let’s get cooking!

Where do borracho beans come from?

Borracho beans, a popular dish in Mexican and Southern Texas cuisines, are made by cooking pinto beans in beer and seasoning them with cilantro, onions, garlic, bacon, bacon fat, cumin, and chili powder or whole. The name borracho comes from the Spanish word for “drunk” or “drunken”.

What are frijoles charros made of?

Cowboy beans, also known as frijoles charros, are a classic Mexican dish that pays homage to the country’s horse-riding cowboys, called charros. The dish is typically prepared by simmering pinto beans with bacon, onion, and garlic. Other ingredients such as chili peppers, cilantro, sausage, ham, pork, chorizo, and tomatoes are also commonly used to enhance the flavor of this hearty stew.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, Frijoles Borrachitos or Drunken Beans are not only a delicious and hearty dish but also a great way to add a Mexican twist to your meals. This recipe is perfect for a cold night in or to impress your guests at a party. With its rich flavor and easy-to-follow instructions, you won’t regret trying this traditional Mexican dish. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, with bacon or vegan, this recipe can be customized to your liking. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and substitutions to make it your own. So, next time you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful dish, give Frijoles Borrachitos a try, and you won’t be disappointed!