Frequently Asked Questions
What are Beery Bacon Refried Beans?
Beery Bacon Refried Beans are a flavorful twist on traditional refried beans, combining Rosarita Refried Beans with bacon, Ro*Tel Mexican Diced Tomatoes, and Mexican beer for a creamy, smoky side dish.
How many slices of bacon are needed for this recipe?
This recipe requires 2 slices of fully cooked, chopped bacon.
What brand of refried beans is recommended?
The recipe specifically calls for one 16-ounce can of Rosarita Traditional Refried Beans.
Can I use fresh onions instead of frozen?
Yes, you can substitute the 3 tablespoons of frozen chopped onions with fresh chopped onions.
Do I need to drain the Ro*Tel tomatoes?
Yes, the recipe instructions specify that the 10-ounce can of Ro*Tel Mexican Diced Tomatoes should be drained before adding them to the skillet.
What type of beer should I use?
The recipe suggests using 1/2 cup of your favorite Mexican beer.
Is there a substitute for the Mexican beer?
If you prefer not to use beer, you can substitute it with beef broth, chicken broth, or even water with a splash of lime juice.
What is the purpose of the beer in this recipe?
The beer adds a bold, savory depth of flavor and helps create a creamy consistency as it simmers with the beans.
How long should I simmer the beans?
The beans should be simmered on low heat for approximately 10 minutes until they reach your desired thickness.
What kind of cheese is used as a topping?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of crumbled queso fresco to be sprinkled over the top before serving.
Are these refried beans spicy?
The recipe uses Ro*Tel Mexican Diced Tomatoes with Lime Juice & Cilantro, which adds a mild zest, but the dish is generally considered flavorful rather than very spicy.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this vegetarian, omit the bacon and ensure you use a vegetarian version of refried beans that does not contain lard.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 100 calories.
What is the protein content of these beans?
There are 5 grams of protein per serving.
How much fat is in a serving of Beery Bacon Refried Beans?
There are 4 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
Each serving contains 11 grams of carbohydrates.
Does this recipe provide fiber?
Yes, each serving provides 2 grams of fiber.
How do I start the cooking process?
Begin by sautรฉing the chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 1 minute until it starts to crisp.
When do I add the onions?
Add the onions to the skillet after the bacon has cooked for one minute, then cook for another minute until translucent.
What is the total cooking time for this recipe?
The total active cooking and simmering time is approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
Can I use a different type of cheese if I don't have queso fresco?
Yes, you can substitute queso fresco with mild feta, Cotija, or even shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
What should I serve these beans with?
These beans are perfect for tacos, burritos, or as a standalone side dish for a Mexican-themed meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I reheat these beans?
Yes, reheat them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if they have thickened too much.
Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
Yes, it is described as a crowd-pleaser and is ideal for fiestas or family meals.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely, you can easily double all the ingredients to serve a larger group.
What if the beans are too thick after simmering?
If the beans are thicker than you prefer, stir in a little more beer or water until you reach the desired consistency.
Is the beer flavor very strong?
No, the beer flavor mellows significantly during the simmering process, leaving behind a subtle richness.
Can I use non-alcoholic beer?
Yes, non-alcoholic beer can be used as a direct substitute for the Mexican beer in this recipe.
What makes this a 'fiesta' dish?
The combination of bold ingredients like bacon, lime-infused tomatoes, and Mexican beer makes it a festive and elevated version of a classic staple.