Authentic Pappasito’s-Style Charro Beans Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

What Are Charro Beans and Why Are They a Texas Favorite?

Charro beans, also known as charros, are a traditional Mexican bean dish that originated in the state of Chihuahua. This flavorful and hearty dish has become a staple in Texas-Mexican cuisine, particularly at popular Tex-Mex restaurants like Pappasito’s.

In the context of Tex-Mex cuisine, charro beans are a beloved side dish that complements a variety of meals. The Pappasito’s recipe is especially renowned for its rich, slightly smoky flavor and tender texture. Charro beans are typically made with pinto beans, which are cooked with a blend of spices, onions, garlic, and jalapeños, giving them a distinctive flavor.

• Originated in Chihuahua, Mexico
• Staple in Texas-Mexican cuisine
• Popularized by Pappasito’s and other Tex-Mex restaurants

The popularity of charro beans in Texas can be attributed to their bold flavor and versatility. Whether served as a side dish or used as an ingredient in other recipes, charro beans are a Texas favorite that continues to delight locals and visitors alike.

Pappasito’s-Style Charro Beans

These charro beans are a vibrant and flavorful staple of Tex-Mex cuisine, inspired by the beloved Pappasito’s restaurant. Packed with smoky bacon, onions, and spices, they’re a perfect side dish for tacos, burritos, or even on their own.

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 45 minutes

Yields: 6 servings

Key Ingredients:

• 240 g / 1 cup dried pinto beans
• 150 g / 5 oz bacon, diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Ingredients for Pappasito’s-Style Charro Beans

Get the authentic flavors of Pappasito’s with these essential ingredients.

This recipe is a staple of Tex-Mex cuisine, and with these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious, comforting dish.

• 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
• 1 onion, diced (240 g / 1 cup)
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced (120 g / 1/2 cup)
• 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (400 g / 14 oz)
• 2 cups beef broth (475 ml)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (15 g)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients:

• 1 pound cooked ground beef or chorizo
• 1 can (4 oz) chopped green chilies
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh epazote (optional)

These optional ingredients will add extra depth and flavor to your charro beans, but feel free to omit them if you prefer a more traditional recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Pappasito’s-Style Charro Beans

To make authentic Pappasito’s Charro Beans, it’s essential to follow a detailed process, including soaking, cooking, and seasoning, to achieve the perfect blend of textures and flavors in this tex-mex classic.

Start by gathering the necessary ingredients, including 450g / 2 cups of dried pinto beans, 1 large onion, 3 cloves of garlic, 1 large tomato, 1 jalapeño pepper, and spices like cumin and chili powder, which are fundamental components of a traditional charro beans recipe.

1. Rinse the dried pinto beans and soak them in water at room temperature (approximately 20°C / 68°F) for at least 8 hours or overnight to rehydrate them.
2. Drain and rinse the soaked beans, then transfer them to a large pot and add 1.2 liters / 5 cups of water, bringing the mixture to a boil at 100°C / 212°F before reducing the heat to 90°C / 194°F for simmering.
3. Chop the large onion into small pieces and sauté it in a pan with 30ml / 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat (around 180°C / 356°F) for 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and starts to caramelize.
4. Add the minced garlic and diced jalapeño to the pan with the onion and continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning, which is crucial for the flavor of the pappasito’s style charro beans.
5. Introduce the chopped tomato to the pan, cooking for 3 minutes, then add 15g / 1 tablespoon of cumin and 10g / 1 teaspoon of chili powder, stirring well to combine and cook for 1 minute, allowing the spices to release their aromas.
6. Add the cooked spice and vegetable mixture to the pot with the simmering beans, stirring gently to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the charro beans.
7. Continue simmering the charro beans for 60-90 minutes at 90°C / 194°F, or until they reach the desired tenderness, which may vary depending on the specific type and age of the dried beans used in the charro beans recipe.
8. Season the charro beans with salt to taste, then serve them hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or scallions, if desired, to add a pop of color and freshness to this traditional tex-mex cooking dish.

By following these detailed steps and using the specified ingredients and cooking times, it’s possible to create an authentic and delicious Pappasito’s Charro Beans dish that captures the essence of tex-mex cuisine and the distinctive flavors of a traditional charro beans recipe, making it perfect for those who enjoy pappasito’s style cooking.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Pappasito’s-Style Charro Beans

Ready to elevate your charro beans to Pappasito’s-worthy status? Here are some insider tips to ensure your beans are bursting with flavor, perfectly tender, and beautifully presented:

Spice It Up Right

The key to Pappasito’s signature charro beans lies in the spice blend. Don’t skimp on the cumin, oregano, and chili powder. A touch of smoked paprika adds a smoky depth that’s essential for that authentic Tex-Mex taste.

The Right Bean Matters

Use pinto beans for that classic charro bean texture. Soak them overnight for maximum tenderness, or use the quick-soak method for a time-saving shortcut. Just be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly before cooking.

Don’t Rush the Simmer

Low and slow is the way to go for perfectly cooked charro beans. Simmer them for at least 1 1/2 hours, or until they’re incredibly tender. Adding a splash of beer or broth during the simmering process adds extra richness and depth of flavor.

Top it Off

Garnish your charro beans with fresh cilantro, diced red onion, and a squeeze of lime juice for a vibrant and flavorful finish. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco adds a creamy, salty counterpoint to the spicy beans.

Substitutions for Pappasito’s-Style Charro Beans

Want to make Pappasito’s-Style Charro Beans your own? We’ve got you covered with these easy substitutions and adjustments.

Spice Up or Down

• Cayenne pepper: Replace 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne with 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a milder flavor.
• Ground cumin: Swap 1 teaspoon of ground cumin with 1/2 teaspoon of ground coriander for a slightly different flavor profile.

Meat Your Needs

• Bacon: Substitute 4 slices of bacon with 2 slices of diced ham or 1/4 cup of chopped cooked chorizo for a different smoky flavor.
• Ground beef: Replace 1 pound of ground beef with 1 pound of ground turkey or 1/2 pound of ground beef and 1/2 pound of cooked chorizo for a leaner option.

Dietary Swaps

• Refried beans: Use 1 (15 ounce) can of black beans, drained and rinsed, as a low-sodium substitute.
• Vegetarian option: Omit the ground beef and add 1 cup of cooked black beans or 1 cup of diced roasted sweet potatoes for added protein and fiber.

Variations for Pappasito’s-Style Charro Beans

To give the Pappasito’s Charro Beans recipe a personal touch, consider these variations that cater to different tastes and dietary requirements.

• Spicy Charro Beans: Add 1-2 diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to increase the heat level. This variation adds 10-15 minutes to the cooking time and gives the beans a bold, spicy flavor.
• Vegan Charro Beans: Replace the bacon with 120 g / 1/2 cup of roasted, diced mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This version reduces the cooking time by 10 minutes and offers a rich, earthy flavor.
• Lime and Cilantro Charro Beans: Stir in the juice of 1 lime and 15 g / 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro after cooking. This variation adds a burst of freshness and citrus flavor, with no change in cooking time.
• Smoky Charro Beans: Add 2 tablespoons of liquid smoke and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika to give the beans a deep, smoky flavor. This variation requires an additional 5 minutes of cooking time at 180°C / 350°F.

How to Store Pappasito’s-Style Charro Beans

These flavorful beans are even better the next day, so don’t hesitate to make a big batch! Here’s how to store them properly:

1. Cooling: Allow the beans to cool completely to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make them watery.
2. Container: Transfer the cooled beans to an airtight container. Glass containers are ideal as they won’t absorb flavors or odors.
3. Refrigeration: Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating: To reheat, transfer the beans to a saucepan and gently warm them over medium heat. You can add a splash of water or broth if they seem dry.

For longer storage, freeze the beans in individual portions. Label and date the containers. Frozen beans will last for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Pappasito’s-Style Charro Beans

Charro beans are a staple in Tex-Mex cuisine, and while they’re relatively easy to make, issues can arise. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are some common problems and their fixes to ensure your Pappasito’s-style charro beans turn out delicious.

Common Issues and Fixes:

• Overcooking: The beans become mushy and unappetizing. Fix: Reduce cooking time by 10-15 minutes and check the beans frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Underseasoning: The beans lack flavor and depth. Fix: Add more of the charro bean seasoning blend or try adding a dash of cumin and chili powder to give it an extra kick.
• Texture Issues: The beans are too dry or too wet. Fix: If the beans are too dry, add a tablespoon or two of tomato paste to help retain moisture. If they’re too wet, simmer the beans for an additional 10-15 minutes to reduce excess liquid.
• Lack of Smokiness: The beans don’t have that authentic charro bean smokiness. Fix: Add a teaspoon of liquid smoke or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to give it a smoky flavor.
• Too Much Liquid: The beans are swimming in excess liquid. Fix: Simmer the beans for an additional 10-15 minutes to reduce excess liquid and create a thicker consistency.

By following these troubleshooting tips, you’ll be able to create Pappasito’s-style charro beans that are flavorful, tender, and authentic.

Nutrition Information for Pappasito’s-Style Charro Beans

Each serving of Pappasito’s Charro Beans (approximately 240 g / 1 cup) contains around 220 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 35 g of carbohydrates, 15 g of protein, and 10 g of fat.

• Calories: 220 per serving
• Macronutrients: 35 g carbs, 15 g protein, 10 g fat

This recipe is GF (gluten-free) and can be adapted to be DF (dairy-free) and vegan by substituting certain ingredients. Please note that traditional charro beans may contain animal products, but this version offers flexibility for various diets.

Key Takeaways from Making Pappasito’s-Style Charro Beans

Discover the secrets to recreating the authentic flavor of Pappasito’s Charro Beans at home.

• Use a combination of pork and beef**: A mix of ground pork and beef creates a rich, savory flavor profile reminiscent of Pappasito’s.
• Don’t skimp on the chipotle peppers**: These smoky peppers add a deep, slightly sweet heat that’s essential to the dish.
• Acidity balances the flavors**: A splash of apple cider vinegar or lime juice helps cut through the richness of the beans.
• Let it simmer**: Allowing the beans to cook slowly over low heat helps develop the flavors and tenderizes the ingredients.
• Use the right type of beans**: Pinto or kidney beans work best for Charro Beans, as they hold their shape and absorb flavors well.

About the Author

The Pappasito’s Charro Beans recipe presented here is the result of extensive research and testing to replicate the distinctive flavor and texture of this beloved Tex-Mex dish. With a deep understanding of the culinary traditions that underpin charro beans, the recipe aims to capture the essence of Pappasito’s style, known for its bold flavors and hearty portions.

Years of experimenting with various combinations of spices, beans, and meats have culminated in a recipe that closely mimics the original. The process involved careful analysis of ingredient ratios, cooking techniques, and the balance of flavors that contribute to the characteristic taste of Pappasito’s charro beans.

Disclosure

This recipe is an adaptation and not an official representation of Pappasito’s Charro Beans. The ingredients and instructions provided are based on available information and culinary expertise, aiming to offer a faithful reproduction of the dish for personal, non-commercial use.

• All measurements are provided in both metric (e.g., 240 g) and US customary units (e.g., 1 cup) for convenience.
• Temperatures are given in both °C and °F to accommodate different preferences and oven types.

Enjoy Your Delicious Pappasito’s-Style Charro Beans!

Making these Pappasito’s-style charro beans is a journey of savory satisfaction. The aroma of simmering spices will fill your kitchen, and the final result is a rich, flavorful bean dish that’s perfect alongside your favorite Tex-Mex meals.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with toppings! A dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice can elevate these beans to new heights.

Ready for more Tex-Mex adventures? Check out our other recipes for tacos, quesadillas, and enchiladas!