Refried beans are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side or used as a filling for various Mexican dishes. If you've ever wondered how to make refried beans from scratch, you're in luck! In this article, we'll walk you through the process step by step, so you can enjoy homemade refried beans whenever you want.
How to Make Refried Beans
Making refried beans at home is easier than you might think. Here's a simple recipe to get you started:
- Start by soaking 1 cup of pinto beans in water overnight. This will help soften the beans and reduce cooking time.
- Drain the soaked beans and transfer them to a large pot. Add enough water to cover the beans, along with a diced onion, a few cloves of minced garlic, and a teaspoon of salt.
- Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until they are tender.
- Once the beans are cooked, drain them and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the cooked beans to the skillet and mash them with a potato masher or the back of a spoon.
- Continue cooking the beans, stirring occasionally, until they reach your desired consistency. If the beans seem too dry, you can add a little water or broth to moisten them.
- Season the beans with salt, pepper, and any other spices or herbs you like. Traditional Mexican flavors include cumin, chili powder, and oregano.
- Once the beans are well seasoned, remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly before serving.
And there you have it – homemade refried beans! You can enjoy them as a side dish, use them as a filling for tacos or burritos, or even spread them on toast for a tasty breakfast. The possibilities are endless!