Mexican Refried Beans are a staple in Mexican cuisine, known for their rich, creamy texture and savoury flavour. Traditionally made from pinto beans, this dish is often used as a side dish or a filling for burritos, tacos, and tostadas. The beans are cooked until soft, then mashed and fried, creating a versatile and hearty component that complements a variety of Mexican dishes. The frying process adds a depth of flavour that transforms simple beans into a delectable delight.
About Mexican Refried Beans
This recipe for Mexican refried beans is simple yet authentic, capturing the essence of traditional cooking methods. With just a few ingredients, you can create a nutritious and delicious dish. Whether preparing a family meal or hosting a festive gathering, these refried beans will surely be a hit. Serve them with rice, in a taco, or as a dip with tortilla chips, and enjoy the comforting taste of homemade Mexican cuisine.
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Mexican Refried Beans Recipe: Perfect for Tacos and Burritos
6
servings10
minutes2
hours2
hours10
minutesIngredients:
2 cups dried pinto beans
1/2 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bay leaf
1 tsp salt
1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder (optional)
1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth (optional)
Instructions:
- Prep the Beans: Rinse the dried pinto beans under cold water. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Let them soak overnight or use the quick soak method by bringing them to a boil for 2 minutes, then removing them from heat and letting them sit for 1 hour.
- Cook the Beans: Drain and rinse the soaked beans. Return them to the pot and cover with fresh water. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, bay leaf, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beans are tender. Remove the bay leaf.
- Fry the Beans: Heat the lard or vegetable oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the cooked beans (with some cooking liquid) and mash them using a potato masher or the back of a spoon. Add the ground cumin and chili powder, if using. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the beans reach your desired consistency. Add broth if the beans become too thick.
- Serve: Transfer the refried beans to a serving dish and enjoy warm.
Ideas for Serving
- As a Side Dish: Serve refried beans alongside Mexican rice and grilled meats for a complete meal.
- In Burritos: Use as a filling for burritos, rice, cheese, and your favorite toppings.
- With Tacos: Spread a layer of refried beans on your taco shell before adding meat and other toppings.
- As a Dip: Serve warm with tortilla chips for a tasty and satisfying appetizer.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Sugar: 1g
History
Refried beans, or “frijoles refritos,” have been a part of Mexican cuisine for centuries. The term “refried” is a mistranslation of the Spanish “refritos,” which means “well-fried” rather than “fried again.” Traditionally, the beans are cooked and then fried in lard, enhancing their flavor and texture. Refried beans are commonly used in Mexican dishes, symbolizing a connection to the land and a history of resourceful cooking.
FAQs
Q: Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
A: Yes, you can use canned pinto beans to save time. Drain and rinse them before frying. However, cooking dried beans from scratch yields a more authentic flavor.
Q: Are refried beans vegetarian?
A: Traditional refried beans are often made with lard, but you can make them vegetarian or vegan by using vegetable oil or other plant-based fat.
Q: How do I store leftover refried beans?
A: Store leftover refried beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I make refried beans ahead of time?
A: Refried beans can be made ahead and reheated when needed. When reheating, add a little broth or water to restore their creamy texture.
Q: What can I do if my beans are too thick?
A: If your refried beans become too thick, add a small amount of vegetable or chicken broth while stirring until you reach the desired consistency.
