Frijoles Vaqueros

February 2024

This update to classic Cowboy Beans gives them some “south of the border” seasonings. Feel free to add browned ground beef or shredded chicken for more of a main course. Swap beans at your discretion — there are no “wrong” beans. You could add cheese, sour cream, and cilantro to finish if desired.

Ingredients

4 to 6 servings

• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
• 2 cups cooked pinto beans
• 1 cup cooked kidney beans
• 1 4-ounce can of diced green chiles
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 2 drops liquid smoke, optional
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• About ½ cup water

Heat a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add just enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan, then add the onion and let it brown. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds. Add cumin and carrot, cook another 30 seconds, and then add the remaining ingredients. Season with salt and let heat through. Taste and adjust seasonings.