Frijoles Charros
Frijoles Charros is a hearty, rustic Mexican bean dish bursting with smoky, savory flavors. Named after the traditional Mexican horsemen, or “charros,” this dish reflects bold, countryside cooking.
With a rich base of pinto beans simmered with bacon, wieners, fresh vegetables, and optional chorizo or ham, it’s a satisfying, comforting meal.
Perfect as a side or a main dish, especially when served with warm homemade corn tortillas, Frijoles Charros brings a taste of authentic Mexican tradition to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Bold, Smoky Flavors
The combination of bacon, wieners, and optional chorizo or ham creates a rich, smoky, and savory profile that’s irresistible.
Hearty and Filling
Packed with protein from beans and meats, it’s a satisfying dish that can stand alone as a meal or complement any main course.
Versatile and Customizable
Perfect as a side, a main dish, or a taco filling, with the flexibility to adjust heat levels by adding more or fewer serranos.
Traditional Comfort Food
Rooted in Mexican culinary tradition, it’s a dish that evokes a sense of home and comfort, especially when served with fresh, warm tortillas.
Simple, Wholesome Ingredients
Made with pantry staples and fresh vegetables, it’s easy to prepare while delivering big flavors, making it both budget-friendly and crowd-pleasing.
Key Ingredients:
Pinto Beans – The hearty base of the dish, packed with fiber and flavor.
Bacon – Adds a smoky, savory depth that infuses the beans with rich flavor.
Wieners – A fun, kid-friendly addition that adds a soft, meaty texture.
Onion, Celery, and Garlic – These aromatics enhance the dish with layers of flavor and fragrance.
Tomatoes and Sweet Peppers – Bring brightness and a hint of sweetness to balance the smokiness.
Serrano Peppers – Provide a spicy kick, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Chorizo and Ham (optional) – Elevate the dish with extra richness and protein for a heartier version.
Frijoles Charros
Ingredients:
1/2 pound of bacon browned
1/2 pack of Wieners
1/2 yellow onion chopped
2 ribs of celery chopped
2 tomatoes chopped
2 serranos chopped
2 garlic cloves minced
4 sweet peppers chopped I used red and yellow
Salt and pepper to taste
1 pot of cooked pintos
Chorizo and ham (optional)
Instructions:
In a skillet add your cut bacon and brown it up.
Add wieners and sauté a bit.
Add the next 8 ingredients and sauté until onion is translucent add the mixture to your cooked beans and simmer for 30 minutes… Done!
Serve as a side or main dish with homemade corn tortillas…
Enjoy!
Notes:
Bean Preparation: If using dried pinto beans, soak them overnight and cook until tender before adding them to the recipe. Canned beans can be used for convenience, but rinse them to reduce excess sodium.
Adjusting Heat: For a milder version, reduce or omit the serrano peppers. For extra heat, add more serranos or a dash of hot sauce.
Meat Options: Chorizo and ham are optional but add a richer, meatier flavor. You can also substitute with smoked sausage or leftover carnitas for a twist.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon, wieners, and optional meats. Add smoked paprika or chipotle peppers for a smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with warm corn tortillas, Mexican rice, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Make-Ahead Tip: Frijoles Charros taste even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Nutrition Information:
YIELD: 4 servings | SERVING SIZE: 1
Amount Per Serving: CALORIES: 305 | TOTAL FAT: 19g | SATURATED FAT: 6g | CHOLESTEROL: 31mg | SODIUM: 806mg | CARBOHYDRATES: 20g | FIBER: 4g | SUGAR: 6g | PROTEIN: 15g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make Frijoles Charros without bacon?
Yes, you can omit the bacon if you prefer a vegetarian version or want to reduce the fat content. You can enhance the flavor by using other seasonings or spices.
Can I substitute the Wieners with another type of sausage?
Yes, you can use a different type of sausage such as chorizo, smoked sausage, or any other sausage of your choice. It can add its own unique flavor to the dish.
Can I use canned beans instead of cooking them from scratch?
Yes, you can use canned pintos beans as a time-saving alternative. Simply drain and rinse them before adding them to the skillet with the other ingredients.
Adjust the cooking time accordingly since canned beans are already cooked.
How spicy is Frijoles Charros with serranos?
Serranos are generally considered medium to hot in terms of spiciness. If you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the number of serranos or remove the seeds and membranes before chopping them.
Can I use different types of peppers in Frijoles Charros?
Absolutely! You can customize the recipe by using different types of peppers according to your taste preferences.
You can experiment with jalapenos, poblano peppers, or even bell peppers to vary the flavor and spiciness.
How can I make Frijoles Charros spicier?
If you prefer a spicier version of Frijoles Charros, you can increase the amount of serranos or add additional spicy ingredients such as crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Adjust the amount to your desired level of heat.
Can I freeze Frijoles Charros for later use?
Yes, Frijoles Charros can be frozen. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
What are some serving suggestions for Frijoles Charros?
Frijoles Charros can be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats, tacos, or enchiladas. It can also be enjoyed as a main dish with rice and tortillas. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime for added flavor.
Can I make Frijoles Charros in advance?
Yes, Frijoles Charros can be made in advance. After simmering the mixture for 30 minutes, allow it to cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat on the stovetop before serving.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan alternatives for this recipe?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Frijoles Charros by omitting the bacon and Wieners. Instead, you can add vegetarian alternatives such as vegetarian bacon or sausage substitutes. Ensure the rest of the ingredients align with your dietary preferences.