Refried Beans

Pour Dry Pinto Beans (2 cups) out onto a flat surface, and sort through, removing rocks and irregular beans.

Put pinto beans into a large saucepan, and wash with cold water. Swirl beans in water with your hands, and remove any beans that float. Drain and refill with water to a volume double that of the beans.

Place pot on the stovetop, add Bay Leaf (1), and cover. Bring to a boil over high heat. Turn down the heat, and boil for 2 hours. Check periodically, and add water if necessary.

Taste beans, and add Sea Salt (2 tsp), Vegetable Oil (2/3 cup), Garlic (1 head) and Vine-Ripened Tomato (1) as needed. Stir until combined. Let simmer, uncovered, for 1.5 hr, stirring occasionally.

Turn off heat, and mash beans using a potato masher to desired consistency.

Serve and top with your choice of Shredded Cheese (to taste) and enjoy!