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Authentic Refried Beans

Creamy and flavorful, these authentic refried beans are a staple in Mexican cuisine, perfect as a side dish or a filling for tacos and burritos.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cups pinto beans, soaked overnight or for a minimum of 8 hours
  • 1 small onion, chopped adds sweetness and flavor
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced for aromatic flavor
  • 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil for sautéing the aromatics
  • Salt to taste adjust according to preference
Optional Toppings
  • shredded cheese for added creaminess
  • salsa adds freshness
  • sour cream for a tangy flavor
  • fresh cilantro for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Rinse the soaked pinto beans and place them in a large pot. Cover with fresh water and bring to a boil.
  2. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 1-1.5 hours until the beans are tender. Drain them and set aside.
Sautéing
  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Mashing and Cooking
  1. Add the drained beans to the skillet and mix with the sautéed onion and garlic. Mash the beans with a potato masher or fork while cooking for 5-10 minutes. The beans should be creamy but still have some texture.
  2. Add salt to taste and continue to sauté for another few minutes to meld all the flavors together.
Serving
  1. Remove the skillet from heat and serve immediately with your favorite toppings!

Notes

If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They freeze well for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary.