Description
Creamy and flavorful homemade refried beans made with simple, wholesome ingredients. This recipe offers a healthier and tastier alternative to store-bought canned beans, perfect as a classic Mexican side dish or a filling addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Beans
- 2 cups cooked pinto beans
- 1/2 cup bean cooking liquid or water
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings & Fat
- 2 tablespoons oil or butter
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the fat: Warm 2 tablespoons of oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the aromatics.
- Sauté the onion: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes, releasing its natural sweetness.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add beans and liquid: Pour in the cooked pinto beans along with 1/2 cup of their cooking liquid or water to help create the desired creamy texture.
- Mash the beans: Using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, mash the beans in the skillet to your preferred consistency, whether chunky or smooth.
- Season the beans: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of cumin, then add salt and black pepper to taste, enhancing the flavor of your refried beans.
- Simmer and stir: Cook the bean mixture for 5 to 10 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking and to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve warm: Once desired thickness and flavor are achieved, remove from heat and serve immediately as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- Adjust bean thickness by adding more cooking liquid or water if needed for creamier beans.
- Black beans can be used as a flavorful alternative to pinto beans.
- For extra flavor, consider adding cheese or chili peppers during the cooking process.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
