MEXICAN-STYLE BEANS – FLAVORFUL AND MEDIUM-SPICY STEW
This Mexican-style bean stew can be served as a hearty side alongside smoked pork knuckle or used as a base for various Tex-Mex dishes. The spice level is moderate; increase the Mexican seasoning for extra heat.
🕒 Prep Time: Overnight soaking
🍳 Cook Time: 2 hours + simmering
🍽️ Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
- 500 g dried beans (preferably red or pinto)
- 3 roasted peppers (1 large red bell pepper + 2 kapia peppers)
- 2 canned tomatoes
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 tbsp + 1 tsp Mexican seasoning
- 2 tbsp pork lard
- 1 tsp salt
- Water, as needed
Instructions
- Soak beans in plenty of water overnight.
- Heat pork lard in a pot until hot. Sauté onion until soft. Add crushed garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- In a blender, combine sautéed onion and garlic, peeled roasted peppers, canned tomatoes (including 2 tbsp juice), Mexican seasoning, and 1 cup water. Blend until smooth. Return mixture to the pot.
- Add drained beans and 6 cups of water. Simmer over low heat with lid partially covered for about 2 hours, until beans are tender and liquid reduces to a thick sauce.
- Add salt after the first hour of cooking.
- If beans need more time to cook, add half a cup of boiling water every 30 minutes until fully tender.
💡 Tips
- Roasted peppers add smoky sweetness and depth.
- Pork lard imparts authentic richness; substitute with oil if preferred.
- Adjust seasoning to taste for desired spice level.
- Slow simmering develops deep, complex flavors.
🎉 Perfect For
- Accompanying smoked meats like pork knuckle
- Base for Tex-Mex recipes like chili or burritos
- Hearty family meals with authentic Mexican flair
📝 Final Thoughts
This Mexican-style bean stew offers tender beans simmered in a flavorful, mildly spicy sauce enriched with roasted peppers and traditional seasoning. It’s a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with smoky meats or as a flavorful component in Tex-Mex cooking.