Mexican Pinto Bean Soup

This Mexican Pinto Bean Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the smoky richness of bacon with the earthy flavors of pinto beans, spices, and a touch of heat from chipotle peppers. The addition of Mexican-style beer and green chiles adds depth to the broth, making this a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this soup is sure to please.

Ingredients:

• 6 slices bacon, chopped: Adds a smoky, savory flavor and richness to the soup.
• 1 white onion, diced: Provides a sweet, aromatic base to the soup.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a pungent, aromatic depth of flavor.
• 1 (12 oz) bottle Mexican-style beer: Adds a subtle, yeasty depth of flavor that complements the richness of the bacon and beans.
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Forms the base of the soup, providing a rich and savory liquid.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a slightly bitter, herbaceous flavor that balances the richness of the soup.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Provides a warm, earthy flavor that enhances the overall spiciness of the soup.
• 2 bay leaves: Adds a subtle, aromatic depth to the broth.
• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles: Adds a mild heat and tangy flavor.
• 2 (10 oz each) cans diced tomatoes with green chiles: Adds acidity and a slight sweetness, along with extra heat from the chiles.
• 2 (14 oz each) cans pinto beans, rinsed and drained: The star ingredient, providing a creamy texture and a hearty base for the soup.
• 1 small chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced: Adds a smoky, spicy kick to the soup.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Enhances the flavors and balances the soup.

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven: Place it over medium heat and add the chopped bacon.
2. Cook until crispy: Stir the bacon occasionally until it becomes crispy and renders its fat, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pot, and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

1. Add the diced onion to the pot: Using the rendered bacon fat, sauté the onion until it becomes translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic: Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot with Beer

1. Pour in the Mexican-style beer: Slowly add the beer to the pot, stirring to deglaze and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This step adds depth and richness to the soup’s flavor.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer: Allow the beer to simmer for about 5 minutes, reducing slightly and intensifying the flavor.

Step 4: Add Broth, Spices, and Tomatoes

1. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth: Add the broth to the pot, stirring to combine.
2. Add the dried oregano, ground cumin, and bay leaves: Stir in the spices, which will infuse the soup with a warm, aromatic flavor.
3. Add the diced green chiles and tomatoes with green chiles: Stir in these ingredients, which will add a tangy, slightly spicy element to the soup.

Step 5: Add Beans and Chipotle

1. Add the pinto beans: Stir in the rinsed and drained pinto beans, which will absorb the flavors of the broth.
2. Add the minced chipotle pepper: Stir in the chipotle pepper, which will give the soup a smoky, spicy kick.
3. Season with salt and pepper: Taste the soup and add kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.

Step 6: Simmer the Soup

1. Bring the soup to a simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer gently for 20-30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld and the beans to soften further.
2. Remove the bay leaves: Before serving, remove the bay leaves from the soup and discard them.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the soup into bowls: Serve the soup hot, garnished with the reserved crispy bacon for added texture and flavor.
2. Optional garnishes: For extra flavor, consider topping the soup with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream.

Tips for Success:

• Rinse and drain the pinto beans: This helps to remove excess sodium and ensures the soup doesn’t become too salty.
• Adjust the heat level: If you prefer a milder soup, you can reduce the amount of chipotle pepper or omit it entirely.
• Let the soup sit: For even better flavor, let the soup sit for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and serving.

This Mexican Pinto Bean Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a meal prep option for the week. The combination of smoky bacon, rich broth, and a touch of heat from the chipotle pepper makes this soup a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with a side of warm tortillas or crusty bread, and enjoy the rich flavors of this comforting Mexican-inspired soup. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.