Name: Authentic Borracho Beans Recipe (Frijoles Borrachos) Recipe
Prep time: PT-492348H25M48S
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 10 h 10 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb. dried pinto beans; 24 oz (2 bottles) dark lager (like Negro Modelo); 1 1/2 cups chicken broth or water; 1 chicken bouillon cube; Kosher salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 bay leaves; 6 strips bacon, diced; 1 yellow onion, diced; 1 jalapeño, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon ancho chile powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon Mexican oregano; 1/4 white onion, finely diced; 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced; 1/2 jalapeño, diced; 1/4 cup minced cilantro; 2 limes, juiced

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Introduction

Borracho beans, also known as frijoles borrachos, are a flavorful Mexican dish made by simmering pinto beans with beer, spices, and savory ingredients. This hearty recipe brings together smoky, spicy, and tangy elements for a comforting side or main dish perfect for any occasion.

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with thick bean stew showing three main layers: the base layer is a rich, brownish stew with white beans and visible pieces of cooked bacon mixed in, the middle layer is a fresh topping of diced red tomatoes and white onions, and the top layer is a generous bunch of green cilantro leaves scattered across the dish. On the right side of the bowl, a wooden spoon rests inside the stew, and the bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a gray and white striped cloth underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb. dried pinto beans
6 strips meat, diced
1 yellow onion, diced
1 jalapeño, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon ancho chile powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon Mexican oregano
2 bay leaves
24 oz (2 bottles) dark lager like Negro Modelo
1 1/2 cups chicken broth or water
1 chicken bouillon cube
Kosher salt
1/4 white onion, finely diced
2 large, ripe tomatoes, diced
1/2 jalapeño, diced
1/4 cup minced cilantro
2 limes, juiced

Instructions

Step 1: Soak the beans. Rinse the beans in a mesh strainer, removing any discolored or broken beans and debris. Place in a large bowl, cover with at least 3 inches of cold water, and stir in 1 tablespoon kosher salt until dissolved. Soak for 8 hours or overnight at room temperature.
Step 2: Cook the meat. Heat a large dutch oven over medium-low heat and add the diced meat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is crispy and fat is rendered.
Step 3: Sauté the aromatics. Increase heat to medium, add diced onion and jalapeño to the pot. Cook 2–3 minutes until the onion softens. Add minced garlic, ancho chile powder, cumin, and oregano; cook for 1 minute more.
Step 4: Simmer the beans. Drain and rinse the soaked beans, then add them to the pot along with beer, chicken broth or water, bay leaves, and bouillon cube. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and simmer on medium-low for 90 minutes. Remove lid and simmer 30 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and creamy.
Step 5: Mix the pico de gallo. Combine finely diced white onion, tomatoes, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice in a small bowl. Stir well and let sit at least 1 hour before serving.
Step 6: Finish the beans. Discard bay leaves. Stir 1 cup of pico de gallo into the beans and transfer to a serving bowl. Top with additional pico de gallo and chopped cilantro to serve.

Tips & Variations

Use sturdy dark lagers like Negro Modelo for the best rich flavor; avoid light beers which can alter the taste.
For a vegetarian version, omit meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for extra smokiness.
Soaking beans overnight helps reduce cooking time and improves digestibility.

Storage

Store leftover borracho beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen if they have thickened too much.

How to Serve

A close-up view shows a bowl filled with cooked white beans in a thick brown sauce. There are small pieces of red tomatoes, bits of green herbs, and chopped white onions mixed in the dish. On top, fresh green cilantro leaves add color. A wooden spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side. The bowl itself is dark gray and sits on a striped cloth on a white marbled surface. In the background, a sliced lime half and a whole green chili pepper sit beside the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

While dried beans provide the best texture and flavor, you can use canned pinto beans. Reduce the cooking time and adjust liquid accordingly since canned beans are already cooked.

What can I substitute for dark beer?

If you prefer not to use beer, replace it with an equal amount of chicken broth or beef broth for a similar depth of flavor without the alcohol.