Mexican Pork Beans: Rich and Flavorful Dish

Frijoles PuercosPhoto byFood Fusion Frenzy

Frijoles Puercos, or “pork beans,” is a rich and flavorful Mexican dish that combines refried beans with chorizo, bacon, and cheese.

>>>Get the Recipe in Details: Frijoles Puercos Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cooked pinto beans (or 2 cans of pinto beans, undrained)
• 1/2 cup pork lard or vegetable oil
• 1/2 pound Mexican chorizo, casing removed
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 cup shredded Chihuahua or Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup pickled jalapeños, chopped (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon and Chorizo: In a large skillet, heat the pork lard or vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside. In the same skillet, add the chorizo and cook until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Remove the chorizo and set aside with the bacon.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Beans: Add the cooked pinto beans (with their liquid) to the skillet. Stir in the ground cumin and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Blend the Beans: Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, blend the beans until smooth. If using a regular blender, you may need to do this in batches.
5. Combine and Cook: Return the blended beans to the skillet. Stir in the cooked bacon, chorizo, and pickled jalapeños (if using). Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and well combined.
7. Serve: Transfer the Frijoles Puercos to a serving dish and garnish with additional cheese or chopped cilantro if desired. Serve warm with tortilla chips or as a side dish.

Conclusion:

Frijoles Puercos is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings the rich taste of Mexican cuisine to your table. Whether you’re serving it as a dip or a side, this dish is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the creamy, savory goodness of Frijoles Puercos at your next gathering or family meal.

FAQs

Q: Can I use canned beans instead of cooked pinto beans? A: Yes, you can use canned pinto beans. Just make sure to include the liquid from the cans, as it adds flavor and helps achieve the right consistency.

Q: How do I store leftover Frijoles Puercos? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Q: Can I freeze Frijoles Puercos? A: Yes, you can freeze Frijoles Puercos. Place the cooled beans in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: What can I serve with Frijoles Puercos? A: Frijoles Puercos pairs well with tortilla chips, tacos, burritos, or as a side to grilled meats like carne asada. It’s also delicious as a filling for quesadillas or tostadas.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian? A: Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and chorizo and using vegetable oil instead of pork lard. You can add more spices or vegetables like bell peppers for extra flavor.

Q: How can I make the dish spicier? A: To add more heat, you can include more pickled jalapeños or add a chopped fresh jalapeño or serrano pepper. You can also serve the dish with a spicy salsa or hot sauce on the side.

I hope you enjoy making and eating these delicious Frijoles Puercos! If you have any other questions or tips, feel free to leave a comment below. Happy cooking!