Classic Refried Beans Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: Varies
Category: Beans
Cuisine: Mexican
Description
These homemade refried beans are the ultimate indulgence. While not the healthiest option, they are packed with flavor and make a perfect side dish when you’re craving something extra special. This recipe is a little more involved than simply doctoring up a can of beans, but the results are so worth it. The addition of bacon fat, garlic, and spices gives these refried beans their rich and savory flavor. We recommend preparing these when you want to serve something homemade and comforting, rather than just reaching for a can of low-fat refried beans. Enjoy with your favorite Mexican dishes, and feel free to top them with a generous helping of melted cheese!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dry pinto beans | 1 cup |
| Water | 4 cups (divided) |
| Salt | 1/2 – 1 tsp |
| Bacon fat | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Diced green chilies | 1 can (4 oz) |
| Green chili salsa | 1 cup |
| Broth (chicken or vegetable) | 1 cup |
| Monterey Jack cheese | 1/2 cup (optional) |
| Cheddar cheese | 1/2 cup (optional) |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 52.4 |
| Total Fat | 0.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 2289.9 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 10.1 g |
| Fiber | 0.3 g |
| Sugars | 0.6 g |
| Protein | 4.2 g |
Instructions
-
Soak the Beans
Start by soaking the dry pinto beans overnight in 2 quarts of water and 2 teaspoons of salt. Once soaked, drain the beans and discard the water. This soaking step is essential for softening the beans and speeding up the cooking process. Make sure the beans are well-drained before cooking them. -
Cook the Beans
Transfer the soaked beans to a large pot and add 4 cups of fresh water along with the remaining 2 teaspoons of salt. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the beans simmer, covered. Stir occasionally and check for dryness. If the beans start to dry out or the water evaporates too much, add more water as needed. The cooking time will depend on the beans and the altitude, but expect this process to take at least an hour. Be patient, as the salt will slow down the cooking. -
Drain the Beans
Once the beans are soft and cooked through, drain them, saving about 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid. Discard the remaining water. The beans should be tender and easily mashed. -
Fry and Mash the Beans
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of bacon fat. Fry 1/4 of the cooked beans at a time in the skillet. Use a potato masher to mash the beans as they cook. The goal is to create a lumpy yet smooth consistency, so be sure not to mash them too finely. Continue mashing until all of the beans are fried and mashed in batches. -
Combine and Heat
Once all the beans are mashed and cooked, return them to the pot. Add the remaining ingredients: the diced green chilies, green chili salsa, and chicken broth. Stir the mixture well and heat through. The beans should now be smooth and creamy, but not too thin. If the beans are too thick, you can thin them out with a bit of the saved cooking liquid, but be cautious—add just a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. -
Adjust Seasoning
Taste the beans and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If they need a little more salt or spice, add it now. If you like a little extra heat, feel free to add more green chilies or hot sauce to your taste. -
Serve
For a special touch, top the beans with a handful of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese just before serving. The cheese will melt beautifully into the hot beans, adding an extra layer of flavor and creaminess. These beans are great as a side dish with tacos, burritos, or any of your favorite Mexican meals. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Refried Beans
- Soaking is Key: Soaking the beans overnight not only speeds up the cooking process but also helps to ensure that the beans cook evenly. If you’re short on time, you can use the quick-soak method by boiling the beans for a few minutes and letting them sit for an hour.
- Bacon Fat Adds Flavor: If you’re not familiar with using bacon fat in cooking, it adds a rich, savory flavor that can elevate your refried beans to the next level. For a lighter version, you could substitute with olive oil, though the taste will be different.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: Beans take time to cook properly, so avoid rushing the process. Patience will ensure the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust for Creaminess: If you prefer creamier beans, feel free to add a little sour cream or Mexican crema to the pot after everything is combined. This will make the beans even smoother and richer.
These homemade refried beans are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. They’re the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and just the right amount of spice. Whether you’re serving them with tacos, burritos, or as a standalone side dish, they are sure to impress. Enjoy the flavorful depth that comes from cooking beans from scratch, and the comfort of knowing exactly what goes into your food.
