Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)

Name: Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 pieces uncooked turkey bacon, diced; 1 small white onion, finely diced; 1 jalapeno, stemmed, seeded, and diced; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 12 ounces beef broth; 4 cans pinto beans, rinsed and drained; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Published: February 7, 2026

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Flavorful: The combination of spices and Turkey Bacon gives these beans a delicious depth of flavor.
Versatile: Enjoy them as a side dish, main course, or even in tacos for a fun twist.
Nutritious: Packed with protein and fiber from the beans, this dish is both filling and healthy.
Customizable: Adjust the heat by adding more jalapenos or spice according to your preference.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos), having the right tools on hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large saute pan
Slotted spoon
Knife
Cutting board
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Large saute pan: Essential for cooking the Turkey Bacon and sautéing vegetables efficiently.
Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing cooked Turkey Bacon without any excess grease.
Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions, jalapenos, and garlic quick and easy.

Ingredients

You will need the following ingredients to prepare these delicious Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos):

4 pieces (uncooked) Turkey Bacon, diced
1 small white onion, finely diced
1 jalapeno, stemmed, seeded, and diced (add an extra jalapeno for more heat)
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 (12-ounce) bottle dark Mexican beef broth
4 (15-ounce) cans pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 Tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1 Tablespoon fresh lime juice
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

How to Make Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Cook Turkey Bacon in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat until crispy, stirring occasionally.
Remove the Turkey Bacon with a slotted spoon and transfer it to a separate plate. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Reserve 1 tablespoon of Turkey Bacon grease in the sauté pan, discarding any extra grease.
Add the onion and jalapeno to the pan. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onion is soft and translucent.
Add garlic to the mixture and sauté for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the beef broth along with pinto beans, brown sugar, oregano, chili powder, salt, and cumin. Stir to combine.
Continue cooking until the beans reach a simmer. Then reduce heat to medium-low.
Allow it to simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.

Step 4: Finish Off

When ready to serve, stir in the reserved Turkey Bacon and lime juice.
Serve your Drunken Beans topped with fresh cilantro for added flavor.

Enjoy your hearty Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos) as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)

Drunken beans (frijoles borrochos) are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a comforting meal, these beans can elevate any dining experience.

As a Main Dish

Serve the drunken beans as the star of the meal. Pair them with warm tortillas for a hearty and satisfying option.

In Tacos

Fill soft corn or flour tortillas with drunken beans for a delicious taco alternative. Top with avocado slices and fresh salsa for extra flavor.

Over Rice

Spoon the drunken beans over a bed of fluffy rice. This combination is filling and perfect for soaking up all the flavorful broth.

With Grilled Vegetables

Complement your drunken beans with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn. The smoky flavors enhance the overall dish.

In Burritos

Wrap drunken beans in large tortillas along with rice, cheese, and your favorite toppings to create tasty burritos.

How to Perfect Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)

To ensure your drunken beans turn out perfectly, consider the following tips. These will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.

Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh vegetables and high-quality beef broth to improve the overall taste.
Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the number of jalapenos based on your heat preference. More jalapenos add more kick!
Simmer Longer: Allowing the beans to simmer longer can deepen their flavors. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t dry out.
Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate additional herbs like cilantro or parsley just before serving for a burst of freshness.
Experiment with Acids: Besides lime juice, try adding vinegar or other citrus juices to brighten up the dish.
Taste Before Serving: Always taste your drunken beans before serving; adjust seasoning as needed for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)

Pairing side dishes with drunken beans can make your meal complete. Here are some delicious options that complement this hearty dish beautifully.

Cornbread: This sweet and fluffy bread pairs well with the savory flavors of drunken beans. Serve warm with butter.
Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness and balances out the spices in the beans. Serve as a dip or topping.
Mexican Rice: Flavored with tomatoes and spices, this rice is a classic pairing that enhances any Mexican meal.
Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make for a great appetizer or side dish alongside your main course.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter and spices provides a delightful contrast to the savory beans.
Simple Salad: A light salad of mixed greens dressed in lime vinaigrette offers freshness and balance against richer flavors.
Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice create an appealing presentation while adding nutrition to your meal.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a comforting side that complements drunken beans wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos), avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious outcome.

Not rinsing the beans: Failing to rinse your canned beans can result in excess sodium and a less appealing taste. Always rinse and drain to enhance flavor.
Overcooking the Turkey Bacon: Cooking the turkey bacon too long can dry it out and make it chewy. Cook until crispy but still tender for the best texture.
Skipping the seasoning: Omitting spices like chili powder or cumin can leave your beans flat. Be generous with seasonings to build depth in flavor.
Using low-quality broth: A bland broth will lead to lackluster beans. Choose a flavorful beef broth for a richer taste in your dish.
Ignoring simmer time: Rushing through cooking can prevent flavors from melding. Allow the beans to simmer for at least 15 minutes for optimal flavor development.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos) in an airtight container.
They will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)

For longer storage, freeze your beans in freezer-safe containers.
Enjoy them within 3 months for the best quality.

Reheating Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer beans to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
Microwave: Place beans in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos).

What are Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos)?

Drunken Beans are a flavorful Mexican dish made with pinto beans simmered in broth and spices. They’re hearty and delicious!

Can I make Drunken Beans vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and omit the Turkey Bacon for a tasty vegetarian version.

How do I spice up my Drunken Beans?

To add more heat, include additional jalapeños or other chili peppers. You can also experiment with different spices like smoked paprika.

What can I serve with Drunken Beans?

These beans pair well with rice, tortillas, or as a topping for nachos. They make a great side dish or main course!

Final Thoughts

Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrochos) are a delightful and versatile dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice levels. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!