Refried beans have always been my go-to comfort food. I love their creamy texture and rich flavor. They pair perfectly with various dishes. You can enjoy them in tacos or burritos or as a dip.
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Refried Beans Recipe
Refried beans, or frijoles refritos in Spanish, are a staple of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. They also hold a special place in other Latin American cuisines. The dish is made from cooked and mashed beans, typically pinto or black beans.
Despite their name, they are not fried twice. The term “refried” is a mistranslation of the Spanish word refritos. It means “well-fried” or “intensely fried” rather than “re-fried.”
Refired beans are often served as a side dish, in burritos, tacos, or as a filling for tostadas. They are rich in fiber, protein, and essential minerals such as iron and zinc. These nutrients support heart health, blood sugar regulation, and digestion.
Here’s how to make the refried beans:
Refried Beans
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pinto beans or 1 can, drained & rinsed
- 2 tbsp oil vegetable oil or lard for authentic flavor
- ½ small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup water or broth as needed for consistency
- 1 tbsp lime juice optional, for brightness
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add beans, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well. Mash with a potato masher or the back of a spoon, leaving some texture.
- Add water or broth, a little at a time, until smooth and creamy. Stir and cook for 5-7 minutes, letting the flavors blend.
- Stir in lime juice if using. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve warm! Enjoy as a side, dip, or taco filling.
Notes
- You can use black beans, kidney beans, or even navy beans for a different flavor and texture.
- To make it vegan, use vegetable oil instead of lard.
- Add a spoon of sour cream or cheese at the end for a creamy version.
- Keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for later.
Nutrition
SIMILAR RECIPES
Pairing suggestions
Refried beans are served with many dishes. Here are some popular options:
- Food Pairings
- Enchiladas: Mix the beans with other fillings like chicken or cheese for a hearty dish.
- Tacos: Add beans inside taco shells for extra flavor and texture.
- Burritos: Use beans as a filling with cheese, meats, or vegetables.
- Nachos are a classic combination. The refried beans are layered with cheese and other toppings.
- Tostadas: Spread refried beans on tostadas and top with chicken, salsa, and cheese.
- Quesadillas: Add beans inside quesadillas for a protein-rich snack.
- Grain Bowls: Top rice or quinoa bowls with beans and other Mexican-inspired ingredients.
- Cheeseburgers: Use the beans as a unique condiment on burgers.
- Layer Dips: Include refried beans in layered dips for added flavor.
- Mexican Molletes: Spread the beans on toasted bread and top with cheese and salsa.
- Beverages
- Agua fresca contrasts with the beans by adding a refreshing, fruity flavor.
- Horchata complements the dish with a sweet, creamy flavor.
- Iced tea with lime reduces the richness of the dish.
- Fresh limeade gives the meal a sweet and tangy balance.
- Mexican beer enhances the taste of the side dish, especially in tacos or burritos.
- Fresh juice provides acidity to balance the beans.
Variations
Refried beans come in various styles and regional variations. Here are some notable variations:
- Types of Beans
- Pinto Beans are common in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. They have a creamy texture and a slightly sweet, earthy flavor.
- Black Beans are popular in Oaxaca, Mexico. They have a firm texture and a robust, less sweet flavor.
- Fat Options
- Lard is the traditional choice for Mexican refried beans. It adds richness and depth.
- Bacon Fat adds a smoky, savory flavor.
- Butter or Olive Oil is used in vegetarian or vegan versions. It reates a lighter taste.
- Regional Styles
- Mexican Style uses pinto beans, lard, and minimal spices.
- Tex-Mex Style includes additional spices like chili powder and cheese.
- Oaxacan Style features black beans and regional spices.