Easy Charro Beans Recipe: Flavorful Slow Cooker Mexican Beans

Learn how to make authentic and flavorful Mexican charro beans using this easy slow cooker recipe. These beans are simmered with bacon, onions, garlic, and spices, creating a delicious side dish that pairs well with a variety of Mexican dishes. With a total prep and cook time of just 4 hours, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to enjoy a homemade Mexican meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried pinto beans
• 6 cups water
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and diced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon lime juice

Directions

1. Rinse the pinto beans under cold water and remove any debris or stones.
2. In a large pot, combine the pinto beans and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let the beans soak for 1 hour.
3. In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to the slow cooker.
4. In the same skillet with bacon fat, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and jalapeno peppers. Cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes. Transfer the onion mixture to the slow cooker.
5. Drain the soaked beans and add them to the slow cooker. Stir in the cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beans are tender.
7. Before serving, stir in the chopped fresh cilantro and lime juice.
8. Serve the charro beans as a side dish with your favorite Mexican meals.

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