Mexican Style Frijoles Refritos (Refried Beans) Recipe
Cuisine: Mexican
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Servings: 4
Total Time: 40 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Black Eyed Beans (Lobia) | 1 cup | Soaked for 2 hours |
| Onion | 1 medium | Sliced |
| Coconut Milk (optional) | 3 tablespoons | For a creamy texture (optional) |
| Salt | To taste | Adjust based on preference |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon | For sautéing and flavor |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 160 mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Beans:
Begin by pressure cooking the black-eyed beans (Lobia) with enough water for about 4 whistles. This will soften the beans, ensuring they are fully cooked. Allow the pressure to release naturally, then drain the beans, keeping the stock aside. -
-
Sauté the Onions:
In a large saucepan, heat a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté them until they become soft and slightly golden, which should take about 5-7 minutes. The onions add a wonderful depth of flavor to the refried beans. -
Mash the Beans:
Add the cooked beans along with the reserved stock to the pan with the onions. Using a potato masher, begin mashing the beans to your desired consistency—some prefer a smooth paste, while others like it coarser for a more rustic texture. -
Add Coconut Milk and Season:
Once the beans are mashed, pour in the coconut milk (if using) for a creamy texture. Season the mixture with salt to taste, and stir well to combine. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can add a bit more butter at this stage. -
Cook and Thicken:
Let the beans cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to your preferred consistency. If the beans seem too dry, you can add more of the bean stock or a little water to adjust the texture. -
Finish and Serve:
Once the beans are thickened, transfer them to a serving bowl. Drizzle a little olive oil on top to prevent them from drying out and to enhance the flavor. Serve these delicious Mexican Style Frijoles Refritos as a side dish with nachos, tortillas, or burritos.
Serving Suggestions
These refried beans are incredibly versatile and can be served alongside a variety of Mexican dishes. Here are a few ideas to pair them with:
- Nachos: Serve as a dip or topping for your crispy nachos.
- Tortillas: Spoon them into warm flour or corn tortillas for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Burritos: Add them as a filling for burritos along with your favorite protein or vegetables.
- Tacos: Use as a hearty filling for tacos, topped with salsa, guacamole, or cheese.
Tips & Variations
- Creamy Variation: The coconut milk in this recipe adds a rich and creamy texture, but if you prefer a more traditional refried bean flavor, you can substitute it with sour cream or a bit of cream cheese.
- Spicy Kick: For a spicier version, add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of chili powder when sautéing the onions.
- Vegan-Friendly: Skip the butter and use olive oil or vegan butter for a fully plant-based version of this dish.
- Customize the Beans: If you don’t have black-eyed beans, you can easily substitute them with pinto beans or kidney beans for a different flavor profile.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Mexican Style Frijoles Refritos recipe is a comforting, flavorful side dish that brings authentic Mexican flavors to your table. It’s simple to make, with just a few ingredients, and it can be easily customized to suit your dietary preferences. The creamy texture from the coconut milk and the rich, savory flavors make it the perfect accompaniment to any Mexican meal. Whether you’re enjoying a casual taco night or preparing a larger Mexican feast, this dish will be a hit!
