How to Make South Texas Borracho Beans in Easy Steps

Updated
2 min read

South texas borracho beans –Borracho beans, also known as “drunken beans,” are a traditional Tex-Mex dish that embodies the rich flavors of South Texas. This delightful recipe combines beans with beer, spices, and other hearty ingredients to create a satisfying meal that can be served as a side dish or a main course. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply preparing a comforting family dinner, these beans are sure to impress.

Image of South Texas Borracho Beans

To visualize the rustic charm of this dish, see the image below:

Borracho Beans

Recipe Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following ingredients:

  • 2 cups of pinto beans (dried)
  • 1/2 pound of bacon, diced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, diced (optional for heat)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
  • 1 can (12 oz) of your choice of beer (preferably a light lager)
  • 4 cups of chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Borracho beans:

  1. Rinse the dried pinto beans under cold water, then soak them overnight in a large bowl of water. This will help soften them and reduce cooking time.
  2. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
  3. Add the diced onion and jalapeño pepper to the pot, sautéing until the onions become translucent.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  5. Drain and rinse the soaked beans, then add them to the pot along with the cooked bacon, diced tomatoes, beer, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally, and add more chicken broth if needed to keep the beans from drying out.
  7. Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro for added flavor.

Enjoy your hearty and flavorful South Texas Borracho beans as a centerpiece of your meal or as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite Tex-Mex favorites!