Easy 'Charro' Beans

Recipe View 10 mins In a large skillet, cook bacon pieces over medium heat until crispy and golden brown. (10 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Reserve 1/2 cup of the rendered bacon drippings. (2 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, add the reserved bacon drippings and warm over medium heat. (2 minutes)

Recipe View 7 mins Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. (7 minutes)

Recipe View 5 mins Stir in the diced ham and crumbled chorizo. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the chorizo is cooked through and fragrant. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 3 mins Set aside 1 cup of the rinsed and drained pinto beans. Add the remaining beans to the pot, along with the whole chipotle pepper and the pricked garlic cloves. (3 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins Using a fork or potato masher, mash the reserved 1 cup of pinto beans until smooth. Add the mashed beans to the pot. This will help thicken the beans.

Recipe View 30 mins Bring the bean mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. (30 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins If the beans become too thick during simmering, stir in a little water or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. (2 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins Before serving, remove the chipotle pepper and garlic cloves. (2 minutes)

Recipe View Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as crumbled bacon, fresh lime wedges, chopped green onions, salsa, shredded cheese, sour cream, or crispy pork rinds.