Charro Beans Recipe
INTRODUCTION
Charro beans, also known as frijoles charros, are a traditional Mexican dish that packs a punch of flavor and nutrition. This hearty bean dish is often loved for its rich taste and comforting qualities. Made with pinto beans and a blend of vibrant vegetables and spices, charro beans can serve as a main dish or a complement to various Mexican meals. Moreover, they bring great nutritional value, being a high-protein and high-fiber food option, making them a fantastic choice for anyone looking to embrace a healthier lifestyle.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this charro beans recipe as it offers a healthy version of your favorite comfort food while being diabetic-friendly and gluten-free. It’s an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, which promotes digestive health and keeps you feeling full longer. The meal prep is simple, making it a great choice for busy weekdays. Best of all, this dish is not only delicious but also aligns with your weight loss goals, as it is low in calories and packed with nutrition.
HOW TO MAKE Charro Beans
Making charro beans at home is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Here’s how to do it:
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Large bowl
- Medium pot
- Medium skillet
- Cooking spoon
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound dried pinto beans
- 8 cups water
- 1 tablespoon Kosher salt (divided 1/2 + 1/2)
- 3 tablespoon vegetable shortening
- 1/2 medium onion, sliced thinly
- 1 jalapeno, seeded and sliced thinly
- 1 yellow chile, seeded and sliced thinly
- 1/2 Anaheim pepper, sliced thinly
- 1 large tomato, cut in half and sliced thinly
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, preferably freshly ground
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
- In a large bowl, add the pinto beans and top with water, ensuring that the beans are covered completely. Soak the beans overnight or at least for 5 hours. Drain out any excess water and rinse the beans off.
- In a large medium pot, add the beans and 8 cups of water. Cover the pot with a lid and bring to a boil, then lower the heat to medium or medium-low to cook on a soft boil.
- Cook for 2.5 hours or until the beans are soft and break easily with a spoon.
- Add 1/2 tablespoon of Kosher salt and turn the heat to low while you sauté the vegetables.
- In a medium skillet, add the vegetable shortening and heat until very hot.
- Add the onions, jalapeno, yellow chile, and Anaheim pepper. Sauté for 2 minutes until vegetables start to get soft.
- Add the tomato, the other 1/2 tablespoon of Kosher salt, black pepper, and oregano, mixing thoroughly. Sauté for another minute or so.
- Add the vegetable mixture to the beans along with the bay leaves and cilantro. Mix well and cover the pot. Cook for 15 more minutes on medium-low to integrate all of the flavors into the beans.
- Serve hot.
HOW TO SERVE Charro Beans
Charro beans can be served in various ways. You can enjoy them on their own, or use them as a delicious side dish. For portion control, consider dish sizes that suit your dietary needs. A generous scoop along with a portion of brown rice or quinoa can turn it into a balanced meal. You can also serve them alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete high-protein meal that is satisfying and healthy.
STORAGE & FREEZING: Charro Beans
Charro beans store well in the refrigerator for up to five days. Make sure to cool them completely before transferring them to an airtight container. You can refrigerate single servings or larger batches depending on your meal prep needs. For longer storage, charro beans freeze well for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
For a balanced and healthy dining experience, consider serving charro beans with a fresh salad made of mixed greens, avocado slices, and a light vinaigrette. Brown rice or quinoa could be added as nutritious and fiber-rich companions. These additions enhance the overall taste while ensuring that your meal remains wholesome.
VARIATIONS
Healthier Version
For a lighter option, you can reduce the amount of vegetable shortening significantly or substitute it with olive oil. This enhances the heart-healthy profile and cuts down on saturated fats.
High-Protein or Low-Carb Version
To up the protein content, consider adding cooked chicken, turkey, or even diced tofu to the beans during the final cooking phase. This not only boosts the protein but also makes it a more filling dish. For a low-carb version, you can reduce the quantity of beans and add more vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers to increase fiber while keeping carbs low.
Air Fryer or Oven-Baked Version
If you want to try an air fryer version, soak and prepare the beans as instructed, then place them in an air fryer dish with the sautéed vegetables. Set to 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, tossing midway to ensure even cooking. You can also bake the beans in an oven-safe dish at 350°F until heated through.
FAQs
Are charro beans healthy?
Yes, charro beans are a healthy option. They are high in protein and fiber while low in calories, making them great for anyone focused on weight loss or maintaining a balanced diet.
Can I make charro beans ahead of time?
Absolutely! Charro beans are excellent for meal prep. You can make them in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for quick, healthy meals throughout the week.
How can I store leftover charro beans?
Store leftover charro beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months.
Are charro beans diabetic-friendly?
Yes, charro beans are relatively low in sugar and high in fiber, making them a good choice for those managing their blood sugar levels.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Charro Beans
Making charro beans ahead of time is a fantastic way to save both time and effort! You can soak the beans the night before and start cooking them in the morning. After preparation, let them cool down and store them in single-serving containers. This makes it super easy to just grab a portion whenever you need a quick meal. These beans reheat beautifully and maintain their taste, making them a perfect addition to your meal prep routine. Enjoy the ease and health benefits of charro beans any day of the week!
Charro Beans
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, add the pinto beans and top with water, ensuring that the beans are covered completely. Soak the beans overnight or at least for 5 hours. Drain out any excess water and rinse the beans off.
- In a large medium pot, add the soaked beans and 8 cups of water. Cover the pot with a lid and bring to a boil, then lower the heat to medium or medium-low to cook on a soft boil.
- Cook for 2.5 hours or until the beans are soft and break easily with a spoon.
- Add 1/2 tablespoon of Kosher salt and turn the heat to low while you sauté the vegetables.
- In a medium skillet, add the vegetable shortening and heat until very hot.
- Add the onions, jalapeno, yellow chile, and Anaheim pepper. Sauté for 2 minutes until vegetables start to get soft.
- Add the tomato, the other 1/2 tablespoon of Kosher salt, black pepper, and oregano, mixing thoroughly. Sauté for another minute or so.
- Add the vegetable mixture to the beans along with the bay leaves and cilantro. Mix well and cover the pot. Cook for 15 more minutes on medium-low to integrate all of the flavors into the beans.
- Serve hot.