Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that embodies the heart and soul of Mexican cuisine: Slow Cooker Charro Beans! This hearty, flavorful recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, bringing warmth and comfort with every spoonful. Imagine the rich aroma of smoky bacon mingling with zesty jalapeños and savory spices wafting through your kitchen as these beans simmer to perfection. With just a little prep time and a hands-off cooking approach, you can create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and discover why Charro Beans are a must-try!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried pinto beans
- 6 cups water
- 1/2 pound bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the dried pinto beans thoroughly under cold water, removing any small stones or damaged beans.
- Sort and soak the beans overnight in 6 cups of water, or use a quick soak method by bringing beans to a boil for 2 minutes, then letting them sit covered for 1 hour.
- In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and releases its fat, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add chopped onions to the bacon and cook until the onions become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and chopped jalapeño, cooking for an additional 30 seconds to release their aromatics.
- Drain the soaked beans and transfer them to the slow cooker.
- Add the bacon, onion, and garlic mixture to the slow cooker.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, and sprinkle cumin over the beans.
- Add salt to taste, starting with 1 teaspoon and adjusting later if needed.
- Pour enough water to cover the beans by about 1-2 inches.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat, cooking for 6 hours or until beans are tender and creamy.
- Check periodically and add more water if beans appear dry, stirring occasionally.
- Once beans are soft, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if required.
- Serve hot as a side dish or main course, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions.
Tips
- Soak Your Beans: For the best texture and flavor, soak your dried pinto beans overnight. If you're short on time, use the quick soak method—just bring them to a boil for 2 minutes, then let them sit covered for an hour.
- Crispy Bacon: Don’t rush the bacon! Cooking it until crispy not only enhances its flavor but also adds a delightful crunch to the dish.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, remove the seeds from the jalapeño before chopping. For extra heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using more jalapeños.
- Check Consistency: As the beans cook, check their consistency occasionally. If they seem too dry, add more water to keep them creamy and tender.
- Garnish for Flavor: Serve your Charro Beans with fresh cilantro or green onions on top for a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
- Versatile Serving: These beans can be enjoyed as a side dish or as a hearty main course. Pair them with rice or tortillas for a complete meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
