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Borracho Beans,

"Drunken Beans," are a traditional Mexican dish that is flavorful and hearty. Made with pinto beans, beer, and a medley of spices and vegetables, these beans are perfect as a side dish or a standalone meal.

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • - Can opener (if using canned beans)

Ingredients
  

  • - 2 cups dried pinto beans or 4 cups canned pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • - 6 cups water if using dried beans
  • - 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • - 1 medium onion chopped
  • - 4 garlic cloves minced
  • - 1 jalapeño pepper chopped (optional for heat)
  • - 1 12 oz bottle or can of beer (pale lager works well, or use vegetable broth as a substitute)
  • - 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • - 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • - Salt and pepper to taste
  • - 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • - Juice of 1 lime
  • - Optional toppings: chopped fresh cilantro lime wedges, and sliced avocado

Instructions
 

  • **Prepare the Beans**: If using dried beans, rinse them thoroughly and place them in a large pot with 6 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1-1.5 hours until the beans are tender. Drain and set aside. (Skip this step if using canned beans.)
  • **Sauté the Vegetables**: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and jalapeño (if using) and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • **Add the Beer and Tomatoes**: Pour in the beer (or broth) and bring to a simmer. Then, add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, cumin, chili powder, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together.
  • **Combine the Beans**: Add the cooked (or canned) pinto beans to the pot and stir to combine. Simmer the mixture on low heat for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the liquid to reduce slightly.
  • **Finish the Dish**: Stir in the fresh cilantro and lime juice right before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  • **Serve**: Serve the Borracho Beans hot, garnished with additional cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced avocado if desired. These beans are delicious alongside rice, tacos, or grilled meats.
  • ### Prep Time:
  • - 15 minutes (additional time if soaking dried beans)
  • ### Cook Time:
  • - 1 hour (if using dried beans)
  • - 30 minutes (if using canned beans)
  • ### Total Time:
  • - 1 hour 30 minutes (with dried beans)
  • - 45 minutes (with canned beans)
  • ### Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings):
  • - Calories: ~200
  • - Protein: 10g
  • - Carbohydrates: 30g
  • - Fat: 5g
  • - Fiber: 8g
  • - Sugar: 4g
  • - Sodium: ~300mg
  • Borracho Beans are a versatile dish that brings a bold and smoky flavor to your table. Whether you make them with beer for an authentic "drunken" twist or with broth for a lighter version, they’re packed with flavor and sure to become a new favorite!