Refried Beans

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Refried Beans are a staple in Mexican cuisine, known for their rich, creamy texture and savory flavor. Perfect as a side dish or filling for burritos, tacos, and other Mexican favorites, they’re versatile, comforting, and easy to make. Whether you use them as a dip, topping, or side, these beans add depth and heartiness to any meal.

Ingredients

• (Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pinto beans
• Onion
• Garlic
• Olive oil or lard
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt
• Ground cumin (optional)
• Black pepper

Directions

1. Rinse the pinto beans and remove any debris. Soak them overnight or use the quick-soak method by boiling them for 2 minutes, covering, and letting them sit for 1 hour.
2. Drain the beans and add them to a large pot. Cover with water, about 2 inches above the beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
3. In a separate skillet, heat olive oil or lard over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
4. Once the beans are cooked, drain them, reserving a cup of the cooking liquid.
5. Add the beans to the skillet with the sautéed onion and garlic. Mash the beans with a potato masher or fork, adding the reserved cooking liquid as needed to reach your desired consistency.
6. Stir in salt, pepper, and cumin (if using) for extra flavor. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
• Preparation time: 10 minutes (soaking time not included)
• Cooking time: 2.5 hours
• Total time: 2.5 to 3 hours

Variations

• Add chopped jalapeños for a bit of heat.
• Use black beans or kidney beans for a different twist.
• Top with cheese, sour cream, or cilantro for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store Refried Beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a little water or broth if needed to achieve the right consistency.

FAQs

Can I use canned beans?
Yes, canned beans work well as a shortcut. Simply skip the soaking and cooking steps, and mash the canned beans with the sautéed onion and garlic.

How do I make the beans creamier?
For extra creaminess, mash the beans thoroughly or blend them with a hand blender. You can also add a bit of sour cream or cream cheese for a richer texture.

Can I make Refried Beans without lard?
Yes, you can substitute olive oil or vegetable oil for a vegetarian version.

Can I freeze the beans?
Yes, refried beans freeze well. Just make sure to let them cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.

Conclusion

Refried Beans are a comforting and flavorful dish that can elevate any meal. With their smooth texture and savory taste, they are a versatile addition to many Mexican recipes. Easy to prepare and customize, they’re sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

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