How to Make a Mexican Charro Bean Soup
Mexican Charro Bean Soup, known as "Sopa de Frijoles Charros," is a flavorful dish that brings together the richness of beans, spices, and traditional Mexican ingredients. This hearty soup is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, making it a perfect meal for any time of the year. If you're looking to create a comforting and authentic Mexican dish, follow this easy recipe.
Ingredients
To make a delightful Mexican Charro Bean Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of pinto beans (dried)
- 6 cups of water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, diced (adjust according to heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces of chorizo sausage, sliced
- 1 cup of corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
Before you start cooking, it's essential to soak the dried pinto beans. Place them in a bowl and cover them with water. Soak the beans for at least 6-8 hours or overnight. Once soaked, drain and rinse the beans.
Step 2: Cook the Beans
In a large pot, combine the soaked beans and 6 cups of water (or chicken broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender. If you're using canned beans, you can skip this step and add them later in the recipe.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In a separate pan, heat a spoonful of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until translucent. Then, add the minced garlic, chopped tomatoes, and diced jalapeño, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
Step 4: Add Chorizo
Add the sliced chorizo sausage to the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chorizo is browned and the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Combine and Season
Once the beans are tender, add the sautéed mixture to the pot with the beans. Stir in the cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, corn, and salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the soup from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve the Mexican Charro Bean Soup hot, garnished with additional cilantro or a squeeze of lime if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs wonderfully with warm corn tortillas or crusty bread. You can also top it with diced avocados, shredded cheese, or sour cream for added creaminess. Enjoy this hearty and nutritious meal with family and friends!
Conclusion
Mexican Charro Bean Soup is a comforting and filling dish that celebrates traditional flavors in every bite. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, making this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the rich flavors and the warmth of authentic Mexican cuisine with every spoonful!