Refried Beans Recipe

1. 1

   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s shimmering nicely.

2. 2

   Add the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring frequently for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent and everything smells amazing. Watch the garlic carefully—don’t let it brown.

   3 min
3. 3

   Toss in the cumin and chili powder, stirring for about 1 minute to toast the spices and wake up their flavors. You’ll smell the difference when they bloom.

   1 min
4. 4

   Add the entire can of pinto beans including all the liquid to the skillet. Using a potato masher or sturdy fork, mash the beans to your preferred consistency—I like mine about 75% mashed with some whole beans for texture.

5. 5

   Pour in the vegetable broth and stir everything together well. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The beans will thicken and become creamy as they cook.

   10 min
6. 6

   Taste your beans and season with salt and pepper—be bold here, beans need more seasoning than you think. If they’re too thick, add more broth a splash at a time until you get the consistency you want.

7. 7

   Remove from heat and let them sit for a couple minutes to firm up slightly. Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with fresh cilantro, and watch them disappear.

8. 8

   Calories: 180

9. 9

   Carbohydrates: 24g

10. 10

    Protein: 8g

11. 11

    Fat: 7g

Fiber

1. 12

   Fiber: 7g

2. 13

   Sodium: 320mg

Iron

1. 14

   Iron: 15% DV

2. 15

   Folate: 20% DV

3. 16

   Don’t drain the canned beans—that liquid helps create the creamy texture.

4. 17

   The beans will thicken as they cool, so make them slightly looser than your target consistency.

5. 18

   Every brand of canned beans has different salt levels, so always taste and adjust seasoning.

6. 19

   Mash to your preferred texture—some people like smooth, others like chunky.

7. 20

   If your beans seem dry, add more broth until they’re creamy enough to spread easily.

8. 21

   Serve alongside Mexican rice, tacos, and enchiladas for authentic meal

9. 22

   Spread inside flour tortillas with cheese, rice, and your favorite proteins

10. 23

    Layer on tortilla chips with cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream

11. 24

    Use as one of the essential layers in this party favorite