Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)

These Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos) are a delightful and hearty dish that promises to impress your family and friends. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home, this recipe features tender pinto beans simmered in a savory beef broth with flavorful turkey bacon. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious side dish or main course that bursts with flavor and is sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a deliciously robust taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy as a side, main dish, or even as a filling for tacos and burritos.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from beans and turkey bacon, this dish offers great nutrition without sacrificing taste.
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the spiciness by adding more jalapenos to suit your palate.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Drunken Beans, having the right tools can make all the difference in your cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large sauté pan
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large sauté pan: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing cooked turkey bacon without excess grease.
• Cutting board: A stable surface ensures safety while chopping vegetables.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes prep work quick and efficient.

Ingredients

These drunken beans (frijoles borrochos) are simmered in Turkey Turkey Bacon and beef broth, and ready to go in just 30 minutes!

For the Beans

• 4 pieces (uncooked) Turkey 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 Turkey Bacon

Cook the Turkey Turkey Bacon in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat until crispy, stirring occasionally. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and transfer it to a separate plate. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Meanwhile, reserve 1 tablespoon of the Turkey Turkey Bacon grease in the sauté pan, discarding any extra fat.
* Add the onion and jalapeno to the pan.
* Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
* Stir in the garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the beef broth, rinsed pinto beans, brown sugar, oregano, chili powder, salt, and cumin into the pan.
* Stir well to combine all ingredients.
* Continue cooking until you reach a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer the Beans

Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.

Step 5: Finish Off & Serve

When ready to serve:
* Stir in the cooked Turkey Turkey Bacon and fresh lime juice.
Serve topped with fresh cilantro for added flavor!

Enjoy your delicious Drunken Beans as a delightful addition to any meal!

How to Serve Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)

Drunken beans (frijoles borrochos) are a versatile dish that can enhance any meal. Their rich flavors pair well with various sides and toppings, making them a delightful addition to your dining experience.

Tacos

• Classic Tacos: Fill corn or flour tortillas with drunken beans for a hearty taco option. Top with chopped onions and cilantro for added freshness.
• Breakfast Tacos: Use drunken beans as a filling for breakfast tacos, along with scrambled eggs and avocado slices for a delicious morning meal.

Rice

• Cilantro Lime Rice: Serve drunken beans over a bed of cilantro lime rice to create a refreshing contrast. The citrus notes complement the beans beautifully.
• Spanish Rice: Pair with seasoned Spanish rice for a classic combination that enhances the overall flavor profile of your meal.

Salads

• Mixed Green Salad: Serve alongside a mixed green salad topped with avocado, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the beans.
• Bean Salad: Combine drunken beans with black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers for a vibrant bean salad that adds texture and color.

Tortilla Chips

• Chips and Bean Dip: Transform drunken beans into a dip by mashing them slightly and serving with crispy tortilla chips. This makes for an excellent appetizer or snack.

How to Perfect Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)

Perfecting your drunken beans is all about enhancing their flavor and texture. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Bold Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding more spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for extra depth.
• Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh herbs and vegetables to amplify the overall taste. Fresh cilantro adds brightness when served.
• Simmering Time: Allow the beans to simmer longer than recommended if you prefer a thicker consistency; this also intensifies flavor.
• Adjust Heat Levels: Customize the heat by varying the number of jalapenos based on your preference for spiciness.
• Garnish Creatively: Experiment with unique garnishes such as diced avocados or crumbled queso fresco for visual appeal and additional flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)

Drunken beans are not only delicious on their own but also pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some options to consider.

1. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread provides a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of drunken beans; serve warm for the best experience.
2. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness, making it an ideal accompaniment; serve alongside tortilla chips.
3. Coleslaw: A crisp coleslaw offers crunch and freshness that balances out the hearty beans; try a tangy vinaigrette dressing.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Charred vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn add smoky flavors that complement the dish nicely; grill until tender.
5. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): This sweet and spicy corn dish elevates any meal; top grilled corn with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice.
6. Chilaquiles: Serve drunken beans atop crispy tortilla chips layered with salsa verde or rojo for an exciting fusion dish.
7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can provide great texture; mix in diced tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado for freshness.
8. Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains offer a delightful contrast to savory flavors while adding an interesting texture element to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make perfect Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos), be aware of these common pitfalls.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season your beans can lead to bland flavor. Always taste and adjust spices before serving.
• Overcooking the beans: Cooking beans for too long can make them mushy. Aim for a gentle simmer to maintain their texture.
• Not rinsing the beans: Leaving the liquid from canned beans can result in excess sodium and unwanted flavors. Always rinse and drain your canned beans before use.
• Ignoring the garnishes: Skipping fresh herbs like cilantro can diminish the dish’s brightness. Always add a garnish for enhanced flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the beans to cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation.

Freezing Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Be sure to leave space in containers, as the beans will expand when frozen.

Reheating Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place beans in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer beans to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, usually around 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos).

Can I use different types of beans?

Yes, you can experiment with other beans like black beans or kidney beans if you prefer.

What can I serve with Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)?

These beans pair well with rice, tortillas, or as a filling for tacos.

How spicy are Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)?

The spice level depends on how many jalapenos you choose to add. Adjust according to your taste!

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the Turkey Turkey Bacon and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Final Thoughts

Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos) are not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite spices or vegetables. Try this recipe today and enjoy a hearty dish that is perfect for any occasion!