Green Beans Mexicali
A flavorful Mexican-inspired green bean dish with bacon, tomatoes, and spices, perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings with bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot, fry the bacon until done.
- Remove all but about 2 tablespoons of the bacon drippings.
- Add the green beans, chopped onion, salt, pepper, Ro-Tel diced tomatoes and green chilies, stewed tomatoes, and water to the pot.
- Simmer on medium for about 45 minutes, adding water as needed.
- Carefully stir to coat the beans.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or pancetta. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, turkey bacon works well too. Fresh green beans can be substituted with frozen ones, but reduce the cooking time slightly. Adjust the spice level by using mild or hot Ro-Tel diced tomatoes and green chilies based on your preference. This dish also pairs nicely with flavors found in Green Chile Stew (Low Sodium).
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish as a hearty side to grilled meats or as a main dish over rice or quinoa. It pairs beautifully with Mexican recipes such as Taco Soup I for a full-flavored meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for added zest. Consider serving with cornbread or tortillas to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until warmed through. This dish also freezes well; just store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Beans Mexicali contains roughly 222 calories, with 7g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (105% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2249mg per serving (98% 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?
Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor. For a smoky taste, consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke. You might also want to enhance the dish with additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
How can I add more spice to this dish?
To amp up the heat, you can add fresh jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper when cooking. If you like a more complex flavor, try incorporating some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance to make it just right for you.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that the canned products you use, like the Ro-Tel and stewed tomatoes, do not contain any gluten-containing additives. Always check the labels to be sure. You can enjoy this dish safely with gluten-free dietary needs.
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).