Charro Beans

Tender beans swimming in a rich broth infused with smoky bacon and spicy chorizo. The sauce should be thick enough to coat a spoon, smelling of sautéed garlic and fresh coriander.

• Prep time: 20 min
• Cook time: 90 min
• Difficulty: Easy
• Calories: 678
• Protein: 41 g
• Carbs: 63 g
• Fat: 27 g

Ingredients

• 500 g White bean ( cooked and drained )
• 200 g Smoked lardons ( whole )
• 150 g Chorizo ( sliced )
• 1 piece Yellow onion ( minced )
• 3 piece Garlic ( chopped )
• 2 piece Round tomato ( diced )
• 1 piece Hot chili pepper ( finely sliced )
• 1 piece Fresh cilantro ( chopped )
• 1 L Mineral water
• 1 pinch Gray sea salt
• 1 pinch Black pepper ground
• 500 g Pinto beans ( previously soaked and cooked or drained canned )
• 1 L Chicken broth

Instructions

1. Brown the meats

   In a pot, brown the bacon bits without oil. When the fat has melted and the pieces are golden, add the sliced chorizo. The cooking oil should take on a characteristic brick-red color.

2. Sauté the aromatics

   Toss the chopped onion into the hot fat. Sauté until translucent. Add the minced garlic and chili. As soon as the smell of garlic fills the kitchen, move to the next step.

3. Stew the tomatoes

   Stir in the diced tomatoes. Cook until they crush easily with a spoon and form a thick paste with the onions and meats.

4. Simmer the beans

   Add the pinto and white beans and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil then lower the heat. Simmer gently until the liquid reduces and generously coats the beans.

5. Finishing and seasoning

   Taste before salting, as the bacon is already strong. Add a pinch of pepper. When serving, generously sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro for a touch of freshness.

Chef's tips

• If the sauce looks too thin, crush a few beans against the side of the pot with the back of a spoon: the starch will thicken the broth instantly.
• Prepare this dish the day before, as the bacon and chorizo flavors fully infuse into the beans overnight.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freezes perfectly.