Beans With Chiles Tezcucana-Style
Beans with chiles Tezcucana-style feature tender pinto beans infused with smoky ancho chiles, bacon, and onions, topped with cheese and fresh vegetables, perfect for hearty, flavorful meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place beans in a large saucepan. Add 8 cups of boiling water, the chunks of slab bacon, and 1 cup chopped onion.
- Heat to boiling over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 3 hours or until beans are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika. If pinto beans are unavailable, black beans or cannellini beans can be used as substitutes. To save time, use canned beans; just reduce the cooking time accordingly. Always taste and adjust the salt and pepper before serving to ensure a well-balanced dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beans hot, topped with shredded Monterey Jack cheese for a creamy finish. They pair beautifully with Mexican recipes like Posoli or can be enjoyed as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats. Consider serving with warm tortillas or cornbread to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to loosen the beans. They can also be reheated in the microwave, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beans With Chiles Tezcucana-Style contains roughly 1641 calories, with 64g protein, 351g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (458% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1636mg per serving (71% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of water. You might want to add some smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar depth of flavor.
How do I know when the beans are done cooking?
The beans are done when they are tender and creamy on the inside. You can test them by taking a few out and mashing them; they should break apart easily. If they are still firm, continue to simmer and check every 15 minutes.
Can I freeze the beans after cooking?
Absolutely! Allow the beans to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers or freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm them on the stovetop or microwave.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).