Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)

These Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos) are a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for any occasion. With their savory flavors and hearty texture, they make an excellent side or main course. Quick to prepare in just 30 minutes, these beans are simmered to perfection with turkey bacon and rich beef broth, creating a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a rich flavor profile that is sure to please your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Serve these drunken beans as a side or main dish; they pair wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or even as a topping for nachos.
• Healthy Alternative: Using turkey bacon and plenty of beans makes this dish a lighter yet satisfying option compared to traditional recipes.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level by adding more jalapenos to suit your taste preference.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saute pan
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saute pan: Ideal for cooking the turkey bacon and simmering the beans evenly.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing excess grease while ensuring you keep the crispy turkey bacon.
• Cutting board and knife: Essential for prepping your vegetables quickly and safely.

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Ingredients

These drunken beans (frijoles borrochos) are simmered in Turkey Turkey Bacon and beef broth, and ready to go in just 30 minutes!

For the Drunken Beans

• 4 pieces (uncooked) Turkey Turkey Bacon, diced
• 1 small white onion, finely diced
• 1 jalapeno, stemmed, seeded and diced (add an extra jalapeno for more heat)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (12-ounce) bottle dark Mexican beef broth
• 4 (15-ounce) cans pinto beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1 Tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

How to Make Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Cook Turkey Turkey Bacon in a large saute pan over medium-high heat until crispy, stirring occasionally. Remove Turkey Turkey Bacon with a slotted spoon and transfer to a separate plate. Set aside.

Step 2: Saute Vegetables

Meanwhile, reserve 1 tablespoon of Turkey Turkey Bacon grease in the saute pan, discarding the extra.
* Add the onion and jalapeno, then sauté for 5 minutes or until the onion is soft and translucent.
* Add the garlic, sautéing for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the beef broth, rinsed pinto beans, brown sugar, oregano, chili powder, salt, and cumin to the vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine. Continue cooking until the mixture reaches a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer the Beans

Reduce heat to medium-low. Allow the beans to simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.

Step 5: Final Touches

When ready to serve, stir in the crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon along with fresh lime juice. Serve topped with chopped cilantro for added freshness.

How to Serve Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)

Drunken beans (frijoles borrochos) are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them as a main course or a side, these beans offer a hearty and flavorful experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve over rice for a filling meal that balances the flavors of the beans and the grains.
• Top with avocado slices and fresh lime for added creaminess and zest.

In Tacos

• Use warm corn tortillas to wrap the drunken beans, adding some shredded lettuce or cabbage for crunch.
• Garnish with diced tomatoes and a sprinkle of cheese for extra indulgence.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with grilled chicken or turkey for a protein-packed meal.
• Serve alongside grilled vegetables to create a colorful plate full of nutrients.

In Burritos

• Fill large tortillas with drunken beans, rice, and your choice of veggies, then roll them up for a delicious burrito.
• Drizzle with salsa verde for an extra kick of flavor.

On Toast

• Spread on toasted bread or crusty rolls for a unique twist on toast topped with beans.
• Add sliced jalapenos for those who enjoy some heat.

How to Perfect Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)

Perfecting your drunken beans is all about mastering technique and balancing flavors. Here are some tips to enhance your dish:

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh herbs and spices make all the difference in flavor. Opt for fresh cilantro rather than dried when possible.
• Control the heat – Adjust the number of jalapenos based on your spice tolerance. Start with one and add more if desired.
• Simmer longer – Allowing the beans to simmer longer enhances their flavor. Don’t rush this step; let them soak up all those delicious seasonings.
• Adjust seasoning before serving – Taste your beans just before serving and adjust salt or lime juice as needed for optimal flavor balance.
• Add toppings – Fresh toppings like diced onions or avocado can elevate your dish even further, adding texture and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)

Pairing side dishes with drunken beans can elevate your meal even more. Here are some great options:

1. Cilantro Lime Rice – Fluffy rice tossed with fresh cilantro and lime juice complements the flavors of the beans beautifully.
2. Grilled Corn Salad – A refreshing salad made with grilled corn, bell peppers, and lime adds sweetness to balance the savory beans.
3. Guacamole – Creamy guacamole provides richness that contrasts nicely with the spiced beans; serve it alongside tortilla chips too!
4. Mexican Street Corn – Elote-style corn on the cob topped with cheese, chili powder, and lime is a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables bring additional color and nutrients to your plate while keeping things healthy.
6. Chips & Salsa – A classic combo; crunchy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa make for a delightful appetizer before enjoying the main meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos), it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch for:

• Using the wrong type of beans: Always opt for pinto beans as they provide the best texture and flavor for this dish. Avoid using kidney or black beans, as they will alter the intended taste.

• Overcooking the Turkey Turkey Bacon: Ensure you cook the turkey bacon until crispy, but not burnt. This adds texture without overpowering the other flavors.

• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget essential spices like chili powder and cumin. They add depth and character to your drunken beans, so measure carefully.

• Ignoring simmer time: Letting the beans simmer for at least 15 minutes is crucial for flavor development. Rushing this step can result in bland beans.

• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Fresh lime juice and cilantro brighten up the dish. Always use fresh rather than bottled or dried options for the best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely; heat in intervals of 1 minute until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos):

What can I substitute for Turkey Turkey Bacon?

You can use diced chicken or turkey breast as a lean alternative that still maintains great flavor.

How do I make Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos) vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the turkey bacon and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, if using dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them until tender before following the rest of the recipe.

What is the best way to spice up Drunken Beans?

To increase heat, add extra jalapenos or sprinkle red pepper flakes during cooking to suit your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

These Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos) are a delightful mix of flavors that can easily elevate any meal. They are versatile enough to be served on their own, as part of a larger spread, or even as a hearty topping for nachos. Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or toppings!