These Crockpot Borracho Beans are an effortlessly adaptable Mexican side dish brimming with flavor! With only 10 minutes of prep, you’ll be treated to a rich, delectable, and creamy pinto bean dish.
I’m always on the lookout for a quick and easy bean recipe to pair with my favorite Mexican-inspired meals. This recipe for Crockpot Borracho Beans might just be my top pick.
This recipe is incredibly simple yet delivers the most flavorful and delicious beans. Even those who are usually skeptical about beans may end up asking for more!
Reasons I LOVE this recipe!
- Extremely quick preparation – In just 10 minutes, you can throw everything into the crockpot. After that, you can step away and come back to a wonderful home-cooked side dish in a few hours.
- Elevated side dish – While a classic bean dish is always nice, the combination of beer, broth, added ingredients, and the lengthy cooking time in this recipe melds together to create an irresistible flavor.
- Adaptable – Enjoy it as a side with any of your favorite meals or use it in other recipes to enhance their taste.
What are Borracho Beans?
Borracho beans are pinto beans that are simmered in beer and broth, complemented by a variety of aromatic ingredients and spices. The term “borracho” means “drunk” or “intoxicated,” relating to the beer component.
Recipe Notes
This Crockpot Borracho Beans recipe is exactly as easy as it sounds! Just a quick 10-minute prep time for a crowd-pleasing meal.
In this section, I’ll share some valuable tips for making the most scrumptious borracho beans imaginable.
Make sure to scroll down for the COMPLETE recipe card.
Ingredients + Substitutions
- Pinto Beans – Start with dried, uncooked beans for this recipe.
- Aromatics – A blend of onion, jalapeño pepper, canned tomatoes with green chiles, and garlic infuses the dish with flavor and texture.
- Liquid – Dark beer and chicken broth work together to create a rich flavor and creamy consistency.
- Spices – A simple mix of dried oregano, black pepper, and cumin boosts the beans’ flavor.
Be sure to check the recipe card at the end of this post for the full list of ingredients and their quantities.
Recipe Variations
will do the trick!
- Frijoles Borrachos with Ham – Bring in some extra flavor by adding either bacon or ham hocks to the crockpot alongside the other ingredients.
- Salsa Borracha Recipe – Increase the spice level by swapping out the canned tomatoes for your favorite jar of salsa.
Recipe Step by Step
In this section, I’ll highlight several key steps in the recipe, but please remember to consult the recipe card below for complete directions on making these slow cooker Borracho Beans.
Thoroughly mix the ingredients together, place the lid on, and cook on high for 6 to 8 hours or until the beans achieve your preferred level of tenderness.
Add fresh cilantro and salt according to your preference, and then serve and enjoy!
Helpful Hints for the Recipe
- Rinse the beans – Dried beans can sometimes contain dirt or debris, so it’s wise to rinse them thoroughly before cooking.
- Start with dried beans – For the best flavor and texture, use dry beans instead of canned alternatives.
- Watch the cooking time – Beans typically need around 6-8 hours to cook properly, but it’s important not to overcook them. Doing so can result in a mushy texture rather than a creamy one.
Time-Saving Recipe Tips
If you’re pressed for time but wish to cook this dish, consider the following shortcuts!
- Soak the beans overnight – Soaking your dried beans in water overnight will kickstart their cooking process, significantly shortening the time they need in the crockpot.
- Prepare beans in advance and store – You can store cooked Borracho Beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months. This way, you can make them ahead of time and just reheat when ready to serve!
Instructions for Freezing Meals
Making this Crockpot Borracho Beans recipe into a freezer-friendly meal is straightforward! Just adhere to these simple steps to store your dish safely in the freezer for up to six months.
Freezing Borracho Beans After Cooking
- Let the cooked beans cool completely before moving them to a freezer-safe container.
- Keep in the freezer for no more than three months.
- To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm on the stove until fully heated through.
Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Borracho Beans
This protein-packed dish showcases the wonderful flavors of Mexican cuisine, making it an excellent companion to a variety of your preferred Mexican-inspired entrees and sides.
Select one or more recipes from the list below to create a well-rounded and tasty dinner, featuring both traditional and healthier options to complement your meal.
Ideas for Side Dishes
- Mexican Chicken Street Tacos – Complete a street taco meal by serving beans on the side! These Chicken Street Tacos are a family favorite filled with marinated chicken thighs and fresh salsa.
- Easy Baked Chicken Fajitas – Ready in just 15 minutes, these quick Baked Chicken Fajitas pair perfectly with Borracho Beans for a fulfilling meal.
- Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice – A classic duo, rice and beans, find a refreshing partner in this Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice that complements Borracho Beans beautifully.
Storing Leftover Crockpot Borracho Beans
Have some leftovers from cooking? You’re in luck! They store well and reheat beautifully, giving you great potential for another delicious meal.
To keep leftovers, divide them into single-serving portions and place them in an airtight container, storing them:
- in the fridge for 3-4 days
- in the freezer for up to three months
Creative Leftover Recipe Ideas
Here are some inventive ideas to repurpose those leftovers into exciting new dishes!
- 7 Layer Taco Casserole with Ground Beef – Replace the refried beans in this Ground Beef Taco Casserole recipe with 16 ounces of your Borracho Beans.
- Loaded Taco Dip – Boost your Loaded Taco Dip by incorporating a generous amount of Borracho Beans. This dip includes ground beef, sour cream, taco seasoning, and your favorite toppings.
- Easy Ground Beef Enchiladas – Add these leftover beans to a hearty batch of enchiladas! This Ground Beef Enchilada recipe features soft corn tortillas filled with flavorful ground beef and cheese, topped with enchilada sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
What sets Borracho Beans apart from Charro Beans?
While Borracho Beans and Charro Beans share similarities, the primary difference is the use of one key ingredient: beer! Borracho beans are cooked using a mix of beer and broth, whereas charro beans are usually prepared solely with broth.
What type of beer works best for Borracho Beans?
For a deep, rich flavor, it’s best to use a dark beer that you enjoy. If a dark beer isn’t on hand, lighter options can be used, though it’s best to avoid sour beers!
Is it safe for kids to eat Borracho Beans?
Absolutely! Even though this recipe includes beer, the alcohol evaporates during the cooking process, making them safe for children.
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