All recipes

Frijoles a la Charra

Frijoles a la Charra are slow-cooked pinto beans infused with smoky bacon, sweet onion, and tomatoes, with jalapeños adding gentle heat and cilantro bringing a fresh finish. A splash of beer deepens the broth for a rich, savory bowl that’s hearty yet bright. Serve at cookouts or alongside enchiladas and grilled meats.

  • Prep15 mins
  • Cook5 hrs
  • Serves8
  • DifficultyEasy
Frijoles a la Charra
  1. 1

    Put the pinto beans in a slow cooker and cover them completely with water.

  2. 2

    Stir in the garlic and salt.

  3. 3

    Cover and cook on High for 1 hour.

  4. 4

    Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until evenly browned but still tender.

  5. 5

    Drain about half of the fat.

  6. 6

    Add the onion to the skillet and cook until tender.

  7. 7

    Stir in the tomatoes and jalapenos and cook until heated through.

  8. 8

    Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and stir it into the beans.

  9. 9

    Cover the slow cooker and continue cooking on Low for 4 hours.

  10. 10

    About 30 minutes before the cook time ends, stir in the beer and cilantro.