Refried Beans
Homemade refried beans are creamy, savory, and far better than the canned version. Pinto beans are simmered with garlic and spices, then mashed into a smooth, rich side. They are perfect alongside tacos and enchiladas or spread into burritos.
- ⏱ 25 min
- 📊 easy
- 🍽 Family
Ingredients
- 3 cups pinto beans, cooked or canned
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 3 tbsp oil or butter
- 1/2 cup bean cooking liquid or broth
Instructions
- Saute the onion and garlic in the oil until soft.
- Stir in the cumin and cook until fragrant.
- Add the beans and some of the cooking liquid.
- Mash the beans with a potato masher to your desired texture.
- Cook, stirring, until thickened and creamy, adding more liquid as needed.
- Season with salt and serve warm.
💡 Chef's tip
Save some of the bean cooking liquid to loosen the beans as they fry; it keeps them smooth and spreadable instead of dry and pasty.
Frying the mashed beans in a little fat after cooking is what gives refried beans their signature rich, creamy texture and deeper flavor.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Protein: 10 g
- Carbs: 30 g
- Fat: 5 g
