Borracho beans, also known as “drunken beans,” are a beloved dish from South Texas and Mexican cuisine. They’re hearty, flavorful, and perfect as a side or even a main dish. What makes them special is the combination of pinto beans simmered with beer, bacon, spices, and sometimes tomatoes and peppers, resulting in a rich, smoky, and slightly tangy flavor that’s simply irresistible.
If you’re wondering how do you make borracho beans, this article will walk you through the process step-by-step. Whether you want to cook them the traditional way on the stove, use a slow cooker, or even an Instant Pot, you’ll find easy-to-follow instructions and tips to get the best results.
What Are Borracho Beans?
Before diving into the recipe, it’s good to know what makes borracho beans unique. The name “borracho” means “drunk” in Spanish, referring to the beer that’s added to the beans during cooking. This addition gives the beans a deep, complex flavor that pairs wonderfully with the smoky bacon and spices.
The base is usually pinto beans, which are soaked and cooked until tender. Then, they’re simmered with ingredients like bacon, onions, garlic, jalapeños, tomatoes, and a mix of spices such as cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Fresh cilantro often finishes the dish, adding a bright, herbal note.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Pinto beans (dried or canned)
– Bacon (diced)
– Onion (chopped)
– Garlic (minced)
– Jalapeño or other peppers (diced)
– Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– Beer (lager or light beer works well)
– Chicken broth or water
– Spices: cumin, oregano, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper
– Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
– Optional: ham, brown sugar, bay leaves
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Borracho Beans
1. Prepare the Beans
If you’re using dried pinto beans, start by rinsing them well and removing any debris. Soak the beans in water with a bit of salt for at least 8 hours or overnight. This helps soften the beans and reduces cooking time. If you’re short on time, canned beans can work too, but dried beans give a creamier texture.
2. Cook the Beans
Drain the soaked beans and place them in a large pot with fresh water, a chunk of onion, a bay leaf, and some salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 1 to 2 hours until the beans are tender but not falling apart. Reserve some of the cooking liquid for later.
3. Cook the Bacon and Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove some of the excess grease if desired, but leave enough to sauté the vegetables. Add chopped onions, garlic, and jalapeños. Cook until the onions are translucent and soft.
4. Add Spices and Tomatoes
Stir in your spices—cumin, oregano, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper—and cook for a minute to release their flavors. Then add diced tomatoes and cook for a few more minutes. This builds a rich base for the beans.
5. Combine Beans, Beer, and Broth
Add the cooked beans back into the pot along with a splash of the reserved bean broth and a generous amount of beer. Add chicken broth or water as needed to cover the beans. Bring everything to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 15 to 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to thicken.
6. Finish and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Stir in fresh chopped cilantro and, if you like, some crispy bacon bits on top. Borracho beans are fantastic served with warm tortillas, rice, or as a side to grilled meats.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Instant Pot Method
For a quicker version, use an Instant Pot. Sauté bacon, onion, and garlic in the pot, then add ham, spices, beans, beer, and broth. Cook on high pressure for about 30 minutes with a natural release. This method saves time and still delivers tender, flavorful beans.
Slow Cooker Method
If you prefer set-it-and-forget-it, brown the bacon and sauté the aromatics on the stove, then transfer everything to a slow cooker with the beans, beer, broth, and spices. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours until beans are tender. This is perfect for busy days or meal prep.
Tips for Perfect Borracho Beans
– Use good-quality beer: A light lager or Mexican beer like Corona or Modelo adds the best flavor without overpowering the dish.
– Don’t skip soaking: Soaking dried beans helps them cook evenly and improves texture.
– Adjust spice level: Add more jalapeños or chili powder if you like it spicy, or reduce for a milder dish.
– Add a touch of sweetness: A bit of brown sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes and beer.
– Serve fresh: Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for brightness.
Borracho beans are a comforting, flavorful dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to impress with its smoky, savory goodness and that special beer-infused twist.
Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every bite of your homemade borracho beans!
Rich, hearty, and packed with flavor, borracho beans bring a taste of South Texas right to your table. Give this recipe a try and discover why it’s a favorite for many!