Mexican Charra Beans Recipe

• 2 cups dried pinto beans
• 5 cups water
• 3 cups beef bouillon or stock (can use 3 beef bouillon cubes or granules dissolved in hot water)
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 to 6 slices bacon, chopped or cut in small pieces across the strips
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
• 2 fresh jalapeño chilies*, sliced into thin strips (discard seeds and ribs before slicing)
• 1 cup canned tomatoes, crushed
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• 3 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro leaves (optional)

Directions