These Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos) are a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and hearty ingredients, making them perfect for gatherings or a cozy family meal. With a savory base of beef broth and the smoky taste of Turkey Bacon, these beans are sure to impress. Ready in just 30 minutes, they offer an easy yet delicious option for lunch or dinner, showcasing the vibrant tastes of Mexican cuisine.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Comfort: The combination of spices and Turkey Bacon creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
- Versatile Dish: Serve these beans as a side, a main dish, or even as a filling for tacos or burritos.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, these beans can easily be scaled up to serve larger groups.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is both nutritious and hearty.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos), ensure you have the right tools on hand. Having the right equipment will make your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large sauté pan
- Slotted spoon
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large sauté pan: Provides ample space to cook all the ingredients evenly and allows for easy stirring.
- Slotted spoon: Helps drain excess grease when removing the Turkey Bacon, ensuring your beans remain flavorful without being greasy.
Ingredients
These drunken beans (frijoles borrochos) are simmered in Turkey Bacon and beef broth, and ready to go in just 30 minutes!
For the Beans
- 4 pieces (uncooked) Turkey Bacon, diced
- 1 small white onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeno, stemmed, seeded and diced (add an extra jalapeno for more heat)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (12-ounce) bottle dark Mexican beef broth
- 4 (15-ounce) cans pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 Tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
How to Make Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)
Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon
Cook Turkey Bacon in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat until crispy. Stir occasionally for even cooking. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the turkey bacon from the pan and transfer it to a separate plate. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Reserve 1 tablespoon of Turkey Bacon grease in the sauté pan. Discard any extra grease. Add the finely diced onion and jalapeno to the pan. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onion is soft and translucent. Follow by adding minced garlic; sauté for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Pour in the dark Mexican beef broth along with rinsed pinto beans, brown sugar, dried oregano, chili powder, salt, and cumin. Stir everything together until well combined. Continue cooking until the mixture reaches a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer Your Beans
Once simmering, reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes. This will allow all flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Final Touches
When ready to serve, stir in the cooked Turkey Bacon along with fresh lime juice. Serve hot topped with chopped cilantro for added freshness.
Enjoy your delicious Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)!
How to Serve Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)
Drunken beans (frijoles borrochos) are a versatile dish that can be served in various ways, enhancing your meal experience. Whether as a main course or a side, these beans offer rich flavors and textures that can complement many dishes.
As a Main Course
- Serve the beans in bowls topped with chopped cilantro for a fresh finish. Pair with warm tortillas for scooping.
With Rice
- Serve over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the flavorful broth, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.
Tacos
- Use the drunken beans as a filling for tacos. Add your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, or shredded cheese to elevate the dish.
With Avocado
- Slice ripe avocados on top of the beans for creaminess. The smooth texture balances the savory flavors perfectly.
As a Dip
- Mash some of the beans and serve them as a dip with tortilla chips. This makes for an excellent appetizer at gatherings.
In Burritos
- Roll the drunken beans into burritos with rice and veggies. This portable meal is great for lunch or dinner on-the-go.
How to Perfect Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)
To achieve the best results with your drunken beans, consider these helpful tips.
- Use quality broth: A rich beef broth enhances the flavor significantly, making your beans taste more authentic and delicious.
- Adjust spice levels: Feel free to add more jalapenos or chili powder if you prefer extra heat in your dish.
- Let them simmer: Allowing the beans to simmer uncovered helps concentrate flavors and thicken the broth for better consistency.
- Fresh herbs matter: Adding freshly chopped cilantro just before serving brightens up the dish and adds freshness.
- Experiment with toppings: Try different toppings like sour cream or diced tomatoes to personalize each serving of your drunken beans.
Best Side Dishes for Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)
Pairing sides with drunken beans can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Mexican Rice: Flavored with tomatoes and spices, this classic side complements the richness of the beans beautifully.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to savory beans, making it an ideal match for your meal.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and onions add texture and flavor while keeping the meal light and healthy.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness that pairs well with the bold flavors of drunken beans. Serve with tortilla chips for dipping!
- Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy slaw provides freshness and crunch that balances out the hearty nature of the beans.
- Chips and Salsa: A classic starter that can be enjoyed alongside your main dish, enhancing your overall dining experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos), avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious dish.
- Skipping the soaking step: Not soaking your beans can lead to uneven cooking. Always soak dried beans overnight for optimal texture and flavor.
- Using too much broth: Overdoing it with the broth can make your beans soupy. Use the specified amount and adjust based on your desired consistency.
- Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season adequately can result in bland beans. Taste and adjust the spices as you go for a more flavorful dish.
- Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking vegetables for too long can cause them to lose their flavor and texture. Sauté until just tender for the best results.
- Not letting them simmer: Skipping the simmering step means missing out on deep flavor development. Allow them to simmer uncovered for at least 15 minutes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway.
- Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos).
What are Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)?
Drunken Beans are a flavorful bean dish traditionally made with beer. In this recipe, we use beef broth and spices for depth without alcohol.
Can I make Drunken Beans vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute turkey bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option while keeping the robust flavors.
How can I customize my Drunken Beans?
You can add extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or adjust the heat level by adding more jalapeños or chili powder according to your taste.
What should I serve with Drunken Beans?
Drunken Beans pair well with rice, tortillas, or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or salads for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
These Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos) offer a hearty and flavorful addition to any meal. Their versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a delightful twist on traditional beans!
Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)
Enjoy delicious Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos) ready in just 30 minutes! Try this flavorful recipe today for a perfect side dish!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 4 pieces (uncooked) Turkey Bacon, diced
- 1 small white onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeno, stemmed, seeded and diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (12-ounce) bottle dark Mexican beef broth
- 4 (15-ounce) cans pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 Tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- In a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, cook diced turkey bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté finely diced onion and jalapeño in reserved turkey bacon grease for about 5 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth along with rinsed pinto beans, brown sugar, oregano, chili powder, salt, and cumin. Stir to combine.
- Let the mixture simmer uncovered on medium-low heat for about 15 minutes.
- Stir in cooked turkey bacon and lime juice just before serving, garnishing with chopped cilantro.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Use high-quality beef broth for enhanced flavor. Adjust spice levels by adding more jalapeños if desired. For a vegetarian option, substitute turkey bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms.