Best Easy Frijoles con Oreja de Puerco Recipe

Beans slowly simmered with pig's ear until gelatinous and rich. This protein-packed family dish transforms humble ingredients into a deeply flavorful, traditional Mexican comfort food.

Cook 180 min Difficulty NORMAL 350 kcal
#high protein #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • dry pinto beans 2 cups
  • pig's ear, cleaned and cut into pieces 1 lb
  • yellow onion, diced 1 piece
  • garlic cloves, minced 3 cloves
  • fresh cilantro, chopped 0.5 cup
  • water 8 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • bay leaf 2 pieces
  • ground black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • salt 2 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 35 g 40%
Protein 22 g 25%
Fat 13 g 35%
Serving size 330g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse the dry pinto beans under cold water and soak them overnight, or use the quick-soak method by boiling for 2 minutes and letting stand for 1 hour.

  2. 2

    In a large heavy-bottomed pot, add the soaked beans, pig's ear pieces, diced onion, garlic, bay leaves, and water. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.

  3. 3

    Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer gently for 2–2.5 hours, stirring occasionally and skimming off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.

  4. 4

    Once the beans are nearly tender and the pig's ear is gelatinous, add salt, black pepper, and half of the chopped cilantro. Adjust water level if needed for desired consistency.

  5. 5

    Uncover the pot for the last 20 minutes to concentrate flavors if desired. Before serving, remove bay leaves, taste and adjust seasoning, then garnish with remaining fresh cilantro.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The key ingredients are the dry pinto beans, which create the creamy and hearty base, and the pig's ear, which imparts a rich, gelatinous texture and savory pork flavor. This combination defines the unique identity of Frijoles con Oreja de Puerco.
Q. How do I control the heat for the perfect texture?
Start with a high heat to bring everything quickly to a boil, then immediately reduce to a low simmer. Cooking slowly over low heat lets the beans become tender without bursting and allows the pig's ear to release its gelatin, resulting in a silky broth.
Q. How can I prevent mushy beans or tough pig's ear?
Avoid overcooking the beans by tasting them as the pot simmers; they should be creamy but hold their shape. Make sure the pig's ear is fully simmered—at least 2 hours—so it becomes tender and gelatinous, not chewy.
Q. What is the nutrition profile of this dish?
Each serving provides about 350 kcal, with approximately 35g carbs (40%), 22g protein (25%), and 13g fat (35%). The dish is high in protein and moderately balanced, making it both hearty and energizing for family meals.
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