New Mexico Green Chile Frijoles with Bacon

Here’s a flavorful and hearty New Mexico Green Chile Frijoles with Bacon recipe — smoky, spicy, and perfect as a side or main dish 🌶🥓🫘

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🫘 New Mexico Green Chile Frijoles with Bacon

🧾 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 1 lb pinto beans (or black beans), soaked overnight or quick-soaked

• 6–8 slices bacon, chopped

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups roasted New Mexico green chiles, chopped (mild or hot, roasted and peeled)

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)

• 1 tsp salt, or to taste

• ½ tsp black pepper, or to taste

• 4 cups water or chicken/vegetable broth

• 1 Tbsp lime juice (optional, for brightness)

• Optional garnish: chopped fresh cilantro or green onions

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🔪 Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Bacon

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.

2. Remove bacon and drain on paper towels, leaving rendered bacon fat in the pot.

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2️⃣ Sauté Aromatics

1. Add diced onion to the bacon fat and sauté 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent.

2. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.

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3️⃣ Add Beans & Spices

1. Drain soaked beans and add to the pot.

2. Stir in chopped green chiles, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Pour in water or broth.

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4️⃣ Simmer

• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 1–1.5 hours until beans are tender.

• Check occasionally and add more water or broth if needed.

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5️⃣ Finish & Serve

1. Stir in cooked bacon pieces.

2. Add lime juice if desired.

3. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions.

4. Serve as a side dish, taco filling, or over rice for a hearty meal.

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🟢 Tips

• Green chiles: Hatch or Anaheim chiles work well; roasting them enhances flavor.

• Spice level: Adjust the amount of green chile depending on your heat preference.

• Texture: Mash a few beans for a creamier texture while keeping some whole for bite.

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🔁 Variations

• Vegetarian version: Skip bacon and use 2 Tbsp olive oil with smoked paprika for flavor.

• Cheesy frijoles: Stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack before serving.

• Spicy twist: Add a diced jalapeño or ¼ tsp cayenne for extra heat.

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If you want, I can make a “quick 30-minute New Mexico Green Chile Frijoles” version using canned beans and roasted chile for a fast, weeknight-friendly recipe that still has authentic flavor.