Charro Beans

Charro Beans, or Frijoles a la Charra, is a hearty and flavorful Mexican stew made with pinto beans simmered in a savory broth with bacon, chorizo, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and chiles. This dish is a staple of Mexican cuisine, particularly in the northern regions, and is often served as a side dish or a main course. It is named after the 'charros,' the traditional Mexican horsemen or cowboys, reflecting its rustic, campfire origins.

🍳 View the full Charro Beans recipe →

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

A typical serving of Charro Beans is a good source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, with a moderate amount of fat from the bacon and chorizo. It provides essential nutrients like iron, folate, and potassium, with a rough calorie count of around 250-350 per serving depending on the specific recipe and portion size.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	240 kcal
Protein	14 g
Carbs	35 g
Fat	5 g
Fiber	12 g
Sugar	3 g
Sodium	850 mg
Iron	4.5 mg
Potassium	600 mg
Folate	200 mcg
Magnesium	80 mg
Phosphorus	220 mg
Zinc	2 mg
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)	0.4 mg
Vitamin B6	0.3 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

The dish is culturally significant as a symbol of Mexican ranching and cowboy culture, often associated with celebrations and family gatherings. Nutritionally, it's a unique combination of legumes and meat that creates a complete protein, while the slow-cooking process helps to enhance the bioavailability of its nutrients.