Do you want a hearty, flavor-packed dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious? Try these healthier Chipotle Borracho Beans! Traditional borracho beans often rely on bacon or fatty pork cuts for flavor. This updated recipe takes a lighter, healthier approach without sacrificing that deep smoky taste. I’ve also ramped up the flavor with the addition of chipotle. Perfect as a side or a main course, these beans are rich, slightly spicy, and so very satisfying!
Why You’ll Love These Chipotle Borracho Beans
- Healthier Comfort Food: All the cozy flavors you love, without the extra fat from bacon.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatility: Serve it up as a side dish or a standalone meal.
- Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is pantry-friendly and easy to find.
Flavor Profile
Rich and layered, these beans balance smoky, spicy, tangy, and earthy notes:
- Smoky: The combination of chipotle chili powder and Liquid Smoke delivers a bold, smoky essence that permeates the dish without the need for bacon or smoked meat.
- Spicy: The serrano pepper and a medley of chili powders (chipotle, ancho, and classic chili powder) provide a warming heat and can be adjusted to taste.
- Tangy: The dark lager beer and diced tomatoes with green chiles add a bright, slightly tangy acidity that complements the deeper flavors.
- Earthy: Pinto beans and ground cumin contribute an earthy, hearty base that makes the dish deeply satisfying.
- Herbaceous: Dried Mexican oregano and fresh cilantro lighten the richness with fresh, slightly citrusy herbaceous notes.
- Balance: A touch of coconut sugar (or brown sugar) rounds out the dish, enhancing the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and balancing the heat.
What makes this recipe healthier than traditional borracho beans? By skipping the bacon, this recipe eliminates the extra saturated fat while still delivering that classic smoky flavor, thanks to Liquid Smoke.
What can I substitute for Liquid Smoke? If you don’t have Liquid Smoke, smoked paprika or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce can add a similar smoky flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! The flavors only get better as the beans sit. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Give these Chipotle Borracho Beans a try and watch them become a favorite addition to your meal rotation. Bold, versatile, and easy to make, they’re sure to be a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners. The ultimate healthier comfort food!
