Description
Creamy, flavorful homemade refried beans made from scratch using simple ingredients. This recipe provides a healthier and tastier alternative to canned beans, perfect as a classic Mexican side dish or a versatile component for many meals.
Ingredients
Beans
- 2 cups cooked pinto beans
- 1/2 cup bean cooking liquid or water
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Fats
- 2 tablespoons oil or butter
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Place a skillet over medium heat and add the oil or butter, allowing it to warm up before adding any ingredients.
- Sauté the onion: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook it until it becomes soft and translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, being careful not to burn the garlic to preserve its flavor.
- Add beans and liquid: Pour in the cooked pinto beans along with the bean cooking liquid or water to help mash and create a creamy texture.
- Mash the beans: Using a potato masher or fork, mash the beans to your preference, whether you like them smooth or a bit chunky.
- Season the beans: Stir in the cumin, salt, and black pepper, adjusting seasoning to taste.
- Simmer: Continue cooking the mixture for 5–10 minutes on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, to blend flavors and remove some moisture.
- Serve warm: Once thickened to your liking, serve the refried beans warm as a delicious side or component in your favorite dish.
Notes
- Adjust the consistency by adding more bean cooking liquid or water to make them thinner if desired.
- Black beans can be used as an alternative to pinto beans for a different flavor and color.
- For extra flavor, consider adding shredded cheese or chili peppers during cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
