Frijoles Rancheros Beans
Frijoles Rancheros are hearty, flavorful beans cooked with crispy bacon, onions, jalapeno, and tomato sauce, making a comforting dish bursting with smoky and savory flavors. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, they offer a satisfying vegetarian option when bacon is omitted. A true taste of rustic Mexican cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and soak the pinto beans for 45 minutes.
- Cook the beans for about 1 hour and 35 minutes until soft.
- Fry the bacon strips until crisp. In the same pan, add salt, onions, and diced jalapeno, and cook for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add the tomato sauce and cook for another 5 minutes.
- When the beans are soft and done, pour the bacon mixture into the beans.
- Cook everything together for 5 minutes, stirring thoroughly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider mashing some of the beans before mixing in the bacon mixture. If you prefer a smokier flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika. If you're out of jalapenos, any mild chili pepper will work as a substitute. You can also use a can of diced tomatoes instead of tomato sauce for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Frijoles Rancheros Beans warm, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or crumbled queso fresco. They pair beautifully with Easy Supper Dish or can be served as a filling for tacos or burritos. For a complete meal, consider serving with rice or alongside Oven Baked Nachos for a delightful crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Frijoles Rancheros Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the beans if they have thickened. Stir occasionally until heated through. They can also be reheated in the microwave.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Frijoles Rancheros Beans contains roughly 149 calories, with 6g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2086mg per serving (91% 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 use canned beans instead of dry beans?
Yes, you can use canned pinto beans to save time. Just drain and rinse them, then add to the bacon mixture after cooking the onions and jalapenos. Reduce the cooking time to 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make Frijoles Rancheros Beans vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use a tablespoon of olive oil to sauté the onions and jalapeno. You can add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to replicate the bacon's flavor.
What can I serve with these beans?
These beans pair well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them with cornbread, over rice, or as a side to grilled meats. They also make a great filling for burritos or tacos, and can be enjoyed with tortilla chips for a tasty appetizer.
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).