Best Damn Borracho Beans Period Recipe

These borracho beans are the culmination of years of perfecting the recipe! Get ready for a flavor explosion of tender beans, savory ham hock, and zesty spices. This hearty, crowd-pleasing dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a festive gathering. Learn the secrets to achieving melt-in-your-mouth beans with our detailed, easy-to-follow instructions.

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 150 mins
Calories 160.5 kcal
Protein 19g
Rating 4.2 (19 Reviews)
Best Damn Borracho Beans Period

Recipe Actions

Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Best Damn Borracho Beans Period

  • Pinto Beans
  • White Onions
  • Fresh Jalapenos
  • Garlic Cloves
  • Roma Tomatoes
  • Fresh Cilantro
  • 2 ham hocks (about 1 pound)
  • Chili Powder
  • Paprika
  • Black Pepper
  • Kosher Salt
  • Cumin
  • Bacon Drippings
  • Chicken Stock
  • Dark Beer

How to Make Best Damn Borracho Beans Period

  1. Soak 1 pound of dried pinto beans in 8-10 cups of water overnight or for at least 6 hours.
  2. Drain and rinse the soaked beans.
  3. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the drained beans with 8 cups of fresh water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
  4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the beans begin to soften.
  5. While the beans simmer, prepare the ham hocks: Trim excess fat from 2 (about 1 pound) ham hocks, reserving the fat. Cut the meat into small, bite-sized pieces.
  6. Add the chopped ham hock meat to the pot with the simmering beans.
  7. Chop 1 large onion, 2 cloves garlic, 1 green bell pepper, and 1 red bell pepper into small pieces.
  8. Add the chopped vegetables, reserved ham hock fat (about 1/2 cup), 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional), and 1 teaspoon salt to the pot.
  9. Stir well to combine and continue to simmer for at least 2 1/2 hours, or until the beans are incredibly tender and the flavors have melded beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  10. Remove the ham hocks and discard bones. Shred the remaining meat and return it to the pot.
  11. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to your preference.
  12. Remove any excess fat from the surface before serving.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

46 g

Sugar

8g

Fat

1g

Carbs

9g