Ingredients for Authentic Refried Beans
- 1 lb dried pinto beans
- 4 cups water
- 2 tablespoons bacon grease
- Garlic Powder
- Chicken Bouillon Powder
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, as alternative to bacon grease)
- Smoked Paprika (quantity not specified in recipe)
- Cayenne Pepper (quantity not specified in recipe)
- 4 cups chicken broth (optional, as alternative to water)
- Chopped Cilantro (quantity not specified in recipe)
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How to Make Authentic Refried Beans
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
- Add the rinsed and drained pinto beans and chicken broth (or water).
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and have absorbed some of the liquid.
- Remove from heat and carefully mash the beans with a potato masher or fork to your desired consistency. Leave some whole beans for texture if preferred.
- Stir in the chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately as a side dish, burrito filling, or topping for nachos. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Sodium
16 g
Sugar
9g
Fat
1g
Carbs
16g