Gloria’s Refried Beans ๐ฎ
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours (including 2 hours soaking time)
Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes
Servings: About 6
Description:
My friend Gloria, hailing from Mexico, has generously shared her authentic recipe for refried beans, reminiscent of those served in the finest Mexican restaurants. With a rich flavor profile and simple preparation, these beans are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends. The cook time indicated includes a soaking period of 2 hours, ensuring tender and flavorful beans that will tantalize your taste buds with every bite.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried pinto beans
- 5 cups water
- 1-2 onions
- 1/2 – 1 cup bacon drippings
- Salt, to taste
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | In a large Dutch oven, combine the dried pinto beans, water, and onions. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and remove from heat. Let it sit for 2 hours to allow the beans to soak. Alternatively, you can soak the beans in cold water overnight for convenience. |
| 2 | After the soaking period, return the Dutch oven to the heat and bring the mixture back to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer slowly until the beans are very tender, which typically takes about 3 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. |
| 3 | Once the beans are tender, use a potato masher to coarsely mash them in the Dutch oven. Add the bacon drippings to the mashed beans and mix well to incorporate the flavors. |
| 4 | Continue cooking the beans over low heat, stirring frequently, until they reach the desired consistency and the fat is absorbed, resulting in thickened and flavorful refried beans. This step typically takes about an hour. |
| 5 | Finally, season the refried beans with salt to taste, adjusting the amount according to your preference. Stir well to ensure the salt is evenly distributed throughout the dish. |
| 6 | Serve the refried beans hot as a delicious side dish or as a flavorful topping for tacos, burritos, or nachos. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, diced onions, chopped cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream, for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy the authentic taste of Mexico with Gloria’s refried beans! |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 425.4
- Fat: 18.1g
- Saturated Fat: 6.9g
- Cholesterol: 16.3mg
- Sodium: 39.4mg
- Carbohydrates: 49.3g
- Fiber: 12g
- Sugar: 2.4g
- Protein: 16.4g
Recipe Notes:
- Make-Ahead: These refried beans can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
- Variations: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite seasonings or additional ingredients, such as minced garlic, diced tomatoes, or chopped jalapeรฑos, to enhance the flavor and spice level according to your taste preferences.
- Freeze for Later: These refried beans freeze well and can be stored in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and serving.
- Kid-Friendly Tip: Get your little ones involved in the kitchen by letting them help with mashing the beans and stirring the pot. It’s a fun and educational activity that can instill a love for cooking from an early age.
With Gloria’s authentic recipe for refried beans, you can bring the vibrant flavors of Mexico to your table and create memorable dining experiences for your family and friends. Enjoy the delicious taste of homemade refried beans that are sure to become a favorite in your household! ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐ฝ๏ธ
