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Cowboy beans are a hearty and flavorful dish. They are often made with dried beans, bacon, and spices. This meal has roots in cowboy culture, where simple, filling foods were essential.

Cowboy Beans

Spice up your meals with a delightful cowboy beans recipe that's both hearty and easy to make! Learn how to create this flavorful dish using dried navy or pinto beans, smoky bacon, and a blend of spices. Explore popular variations and discover the best sides to complement your cowboy beans. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this recipe is sure to impress.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups dried navy beans (or pinto beans), rinsed and soaked overnight

4 cups water

4 slices bacon, chopped

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 green bell pepper, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice)

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (no salt added)

1/4 cup brown sugar

3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (optional for depth)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Beans: In a large pot, combine the soaked beans and 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until tender. Drain and set aside.

    Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and let it drain on a paper towel, leaving some grease in the skillet for flavor.

      Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the bacon grease. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

        Add Seasonings: Stir in the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper, cooking for an additional minute to release the spices' flavors.

          Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beans, sautéed mixture, diced tomatoes (with juice), brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the cooked bacon. Mix well.

            Simmer Together: Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker or a large pot. If using a slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours. If using the stovetop, simmer on low for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

              Final Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Add the remaining bacon before serving for an added crunch.

                Serve Warm: Scoop the cowboy beans into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours | Servings: 6-8

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve in rustic bowls with crusty bread on the side for a hearty meal. Garnish with additional parsley for a pop of color.