Mexican Refried Beans
Creamy, savory Mexican Refried Beans perfect as a side dish or filling for tacos and burritos.
Ingredients
For the Beans
- 2 cups dried pinto beans Rinse before soaking.
- 6 cups water Essential for cooking.
- 1 cup reserved bean broth To adjust consistency.
- ¼ small white onion (optional) Adds subtle sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic (optional) Infuses dish with aromatic depth.
- 4 leaves epazote herb (optional) Offers distinctive flavor.
- 1 large jalapeño pepper (optional) Adds heat and vibrant color.
- 1 large pinch sea salt To taste.
For Frying and Flavor
- 3 tablespoons olive oil Provides richness.
- ⅓ cup white onion, finely chopped For flavor contrast.
- 1 clove garlic (optional) Enhances savory notes.
- 2 whole chiles de árbol (optional) Substitute with serrano or jalapeño.
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the dried pinto beans under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a large pot, cover the beans with 6 cups of water and soak overnight. For a quicker option, bring the water to boil for 2 minutes, then let the beans sit for an hour.
Cooking
- Drain the soaked beans and rinse them again. Return the beans to the pot, add fresh water, and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, until the beans are tender.
- Add salt toward the end of cooking to avoid tough beans, and reserve 1 cup of the bean broth for later use.
Frying Aromatics
- In a spacious skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- When the oil is shimmering, add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent.
- If using garlic, add it now and sauté until fragrant.
Mashing Beans
- Add the cooked beans to the skillet along with a splash of the reserved bean broth.
- Using a potato masher or a fork, mash the beans until they reach a creamy consistency.
- For a smoother texture, feel free to add more broth.
Final Steps
- For extra heat, add the chiles de árbol and stir.
- Adjust the seasoning with sea salt and let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes to meld flavors.
Serving
- Serve your piping hot Mexican Refried Beans as a delightful side dish or as a filling for tacos and enchiladas.
Notes
These beans are versatile and can be served as a side, in burritos, or layered for nachos. They store well in the fridge for up to a week and freeze for up to three months.