Refried Beans I

Refried Beans I Recipe - Traditional Mexican Dish

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 2.5 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Refried beans are a classic Mexican dish that is enjoyed all over the world for its rich and creamy texture. This recipe for Refried Beans I is a simple and delicious way to make this traditional dish at home.

History

Refried beans have been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries. The term "refried" is actually a mistranslation of the Spanish word "refritos," which means well-fried. The dish is typically made by mashing cooked beans and then frying them in oil or lard. This process gives the beans a creamy texture and rich flavor that is perfect for serving as a side dish or as a filling for tacos and burritos.

Ingredients

2 cups of dry pinto beans
6 cups of water
0.33 cup of chopped onion
1 tsp of garlic powder
1 tsp of olive oil
1 cup of liquid from the cooked beans

How to prepare

Clean the beans and soak them overnight. Drain the beans.
In a medium pan, combine the soaked beans, water, onion, garlic powder, and olive oil.
Cook the mixture over medium heat for 2.5 hours or until the beans are tender.
In a large heavy skillet, mash 3 cups of the cooked beans.
Add 1 cup of the liquid used to cook the beans.
Continue cooking over medium heat until the mixture thickens to the desired consistency.

Variations

Add diced jalapenos or green chilies for a spicy kick.
Mix in cooked bacon or chorizo for a meaty twist.
Use black beans or kidney beans instead of pinto beans for a different flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the beans overnight helps to reduce cooking time and improve their texture.

- Cooking the beans with onion and garlic powder adds flavor to the dish.

- Mash the beans to your desired consistency for a creamy or chunky texture.

- Adding some of the cooking liquid helps to thicken the beans and enhance their flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the refried beans as a side dish with rice, tacos, or burritos.

- Top with cheese, sour cream, and salsa for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Soaking the beans overnight helps to reduce cooking time and improve their texture.

- Mash the beans with a potato masher or fork for a creamy consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canned beans instead of dry beans for a quicker cooking time.

- Substitute vegetable broth for the cooking liquid for added flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

The refried beans can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced avocado for a colorful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the refried beans with Mexican rice, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

180

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 36g

- Dietary Fiber: 9g

- Sugars: 1g

Fats

- Total Fat: 1g

- Saturated Fat: 0g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 7g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 0%

- Vitamin C: 2%

- Calcium: 4%

- Iron: 10%

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and vegan.

Summary

This recipe is a good source of fiber, protein, and iron. It is low in fat and calories, making it a healthy and nutritious dish.

Summary

This recipe for Refried Beans I is a simple and delicious way to make this classic Mexican dish at home. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can enjoy the rich and creamy texture of refried beans in no time. Serve as a side dish or as a filling for tacos and burritos for a tasty and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. I had always loved Mexican cuisine, and refried beans were a staple in many of my favorite dishes. So when my friend Maria shared her family recipe with me, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Maria and I had been friends for years, bonding over our love of cooking and sharing recipes with each other. When she brought over a pot of her homemade refried beans one day, I couldn't wait to dig in. The beans were creamy and flavorful, with just the right amount of spice. I asked Maria for the recipe, and she was happy to share it with me.

As I read over the ingredients and instructions, I realized that making refried beans was much simpler than I had thought. All it required was some pinto beans, onions, garlic, and a few spices. I was determined to master this recipe and add it to my repertoire of dishes.

The next time I went to the store, I picked up a bag of dried pinto beans and all the other ingredients I needed. I soaked the beans overnight, then cooked them until they were tender. In a separate pan, I sautéed onions and garlic until they were fragrant, then added the cooked beans and some chicken broth. I mashed the beans with a potato masher until they were creamy and delicious.

I couldn't believe how easy it was to make refried beans from scratch. The flavors were incredible, and I knew I had found a new favorite dish. I served the beans alongside some homemade tortillas and salsa, and my family couldn't get enough.

Over the years, I continued to make refried beans whenever I was craving a taste of Mexico. I shared the recipe with friends and family, and it became a beloved dish in our household. I even started experimenting with different variations, adding in extra vegetables or spices to change up the flavor.

One day, I was hosting a dinner party for some friends, and I decided to make a big pot of refried beans to serve alongside our main course. As my guests dug in, I could see the smiles on their faces as they savored each bite. They couldn't believe that I had made such a delicious dish from scratch.

As the evening came to a close, one of my friends asked me for the recipe. I happily shared it with her, knowing that she would love making refried beans as much as I did. And just like that, Maria's family recipe had been passed down to another generation of cooks.

Now, whenever I make refried beans, I think of Maria and the day she shared her recipe with me. I am grateful for her generosity and for introducing me to a dish that has become a favorite in my kitchen. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others and share a piece of myself, and I am grateful for the friendships that have been forged over a steaming pot of refried beans.