Delicious Charro Bean Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

When the weather cools down, nothing warms you up quite like a bowl of charro bean soup. Picture this: a steaming bowl filled with tender beans, vibrant vegetables, and spices that dance on your taste buds like a mariachi band at a family fiesta. The aroma wafts through your home, making everyone’s mouth water and their hearts smile, promising a flavor experience that is both comforting and invigorating.

Now, let me take you back to that unforgettable family gathering when we made this charro bean soup recipe. My cousin Ricardo tried to outdo my abuela’s secret recipe but ended up creating a bean explosion in the kitchen. We laughed until our sides hurt while salvaging what turned out to be an amazing pot of soup—one that still holds a special place in our hearts (and bellies). This dish is perfect for chilly nights spent huddled under blankets or lively celebrations where friends and family gather around the table. Get ready for an incredible flavor journey!

I remember the first time I made this soup; my friends couldn’t believe something so delicious could come from my kitchen!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Charro Beans: These hearty beans are the star of the show; look for dried ones to soak overnight for optimal flavor.

• Onion: A medium-sized onion adds sweetness; chop it finely to release its full potential in the soup.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential; they add depth and aroma that elevates every bite.

• Bell Peppers: Any color works! They lend sweetness and crunch; choose fresh ones for maximum vibrancy.

• Tomatoes: Fresh or canned tomatoes add tanginess; opt for diced tomatoes for ease of use.

• Bacon or Chorizo: For added richness and smoky flavor, choose your favorite protein here; crispy bacon is hard to beat!

• Broth or Stock: Use vegetable or chicken broth as your liquid base to infuse more flavor into the beans.

• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness and color; toss some in right before serving for a fresh finish.

• Lime Juice: A squeeze of lime enhances all flavors beautifully; don’t skip this zesty addition!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make charro bean soup recipe

Start by soaking those charro beans overnight in plenty of water. This makes them tender and ready to absorb all the delicious flavors you’ll be adding later.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent—about five minutes should do it.

Add Vegetables: Toss in diced bell peppers and cook until they soften slightly, stirring occasionally—about three minutes will bring out their sweet notes.

Add Protein: If you’re using bacon or chorizo, now’s the time! Add it to the pot and cook until browned and crispy—this step builds a savory base for your soup.

Add Beans & Broth: Drain your soaked beans and add them along with your choice of broth. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to simmer gently—let those flavors marry together for about an hour.

Add Finishing Touches: Once beans are tender, stir in chopped tomatoes and cilantro. Squeeze fresh lime juice over top just before serving—it brightens everything up beautifully!

Serve hot with warm tortillas on the side for dunking into that creamy goodness. Enjoy every spoonful—you’ve earned it!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by soaking your beans overnight for optimal texture. Cook them with aromatics like onions and garlic first, then add spices and veggies for full flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different beans or add ingredients like corn or chorizo. Spice levels can also be adjusted with jalapeños or hot sauce to suit your palate.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if necessary to revive its creamy texture.

Sharing this recipe takes me back to family gatherings where we all sat around the table savoring every spoonful while swapping stories. Those moments are what cooking is all about!

FAQ

What type of beans should I use for charro bean soup?

Pinto beans are traditional, but black beans or kidney beans work well too.

Can I make charro bean soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit meat and use vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian option.

How do I thicken my charro bean soup?

Blend a portion of the soup before serving; it creates a creamy texture without extra calories.

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Charro Bean Soup

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Charro bean soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that warms you from the inside out. This comforting soup features tender charro beans, vibrant vegetables, and a perfect blend of spices. Ideal for chilly nights or family gatherings, this recipe delivers a deliciously satisfying experience that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Get ready to savor every spoonful!

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup dried charro beans
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 slices bacon or 1 cup chorizo, chopped
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

1. Soak the charro beans in water overnight.
2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant (about 5 minutes).
3. Add bell peppers and cook until softened (about 3 minutes).
4. Stir in bacon or chorizo; cook until browned.
5. Drain soaked beans; add to the pot with broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about an hour.
6. Once beans are tender, stir in diced tomatoes and cilantro. Squeeze lime juice over before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Substitute pinto beans if preferred. For a vegetarian option, omit meat and use vegetable broth. Adjust spice levels by adding jalapeños or hot sauce.