Charra Beans

Flavorful side dish of beans seasoned with bacon and cilantro tossed with roma tomatoes.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lbs Pinto Beans
• 1 gallon water
• 3/4 lb. Bacon pieces, chopped into 1 inch squares
• 1/2 C, plus 1 tbsp. fresh garlic, chopped fine
• 4 Tbsp. cilantro plus 1/8C cilantro chopped fine
• 1C white onion chopped
• 1 Tbsp. cumin
• 1 Tbsp.chili powder
• 1/2 gallon cold water
• 1-1/2tbsp salt
• 2C.Roma Tomatoes, chopped

Directions:

Soak beans in 1 gallon water for 8 hours. Drain when ready to use. In a 2 gallon heavy pot cook the bacon pieces until well done. Do not overcook the bacon. Add 1/2C chopped garlic, 3Tbsp cilantro, and chopped onions to hot bacon. Cook until onions are transparent. When onions are ready add beans, cumin, and chili powder. Stir and add 1/2 gallon cold water. Turn heat to medium low. Add salt and stir. Cook beans slowly until fork tender (approximately 1hour). Stir constantly to avoid burning the bottom. Add tomatoes, remaining garlic and cilantro and serve.

Number of Servings: