Easy Refried Beans

If you’re looking for an easy, delicious, and versatile side dish that can elevate your meals, look no further than this recipe for Easy Refried Beans. Made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, this dish is not only satisfying but also a fantastic source of protein. Whether you’re serving them as a side at dinner, using them as a filling for tacos, or spreading them on a burrito, these refried beans are sure to impress.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This recipe stands out because it combines ease with incredible flavor. You don’t need to soak beans overnight or use complicated techniques. Instead, you can whip up a batch of Easy Refried Beans in under 30 minutes. The use of pantry staples means you can make this dish any night of the week, and the flavors are customizable to suit your tastes. Trust us, once you try them, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your regular rotation!

What Goes In

To make your Easy Refried Beans, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 30 oz pinto beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh lime juice and cilantro, optional for garnish

Cook’s Kit

Before you dive into cooking, make sure you have the following items:

• Large skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet works best for even cooking.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for mashing and stirring the beans.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure you get your measurements just right.
• Can opener: If you’re using canned beans, this is essential!
• Cutting board and knife: For chopping your onion and garlic.

Method: Easy Refried Beans

Now, let’s get to the cooking part! Follow these simple steps to create your Easy Refried Beans:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Beans and Seasonings

Add the rinsed and drained pinto beans to the skillet. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, and dried oregano. Mix everything together well.

Step 3: Simmer the Mixture

Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully. If the mixture appears too dry, you can add a bit more broth.

Step 4: Mash the Beans

Using a wooden spoon, begin to mash the beans to your desired consistency. For smooth refried beans, continue mashing until creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, mash less.

Step 5: Season to Taste

Once you’ve achieved your desired consistency, taste the beans and season with kosher salt and black pepper as needed. If you like, squeeze in some fresh lime juice for an extra zing!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Easy Refried Beans warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. They make an excellent accompaniment to any Mexican-inspired meal!

Tailor It to Your Diet

This recipe is flexible and can be tailored to suit various dietary needs:

• Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan as it uses vegetable broth.
• Gluten-free: Perfect for those avoiding gluten.
• Low-sodium: Use low-sodium vegetable broth and adjust salt to your preference.
• Add-ins: Feel free to add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Method to the Madness

Creating Easy Refried Beans is not just about following a recipe; it’s about understanding the method behind it. Here’s how the process works:

• Sautéing the onion and garlic brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the beans.
• Adding spices while cooking the beans allows them to infuse the dish with aromatic flavors, making every bite delicious.
• Mashing the beans gives you control over the texture, allowing you to cater to your personal preference.
• Fresh lime juice adds brightness, cutting through the richness of the beans and elevating the dish further.

How to Store & Reheat

To keep your Easy Refried Beans fresh:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat. You can add a splash of water or broth to loosen the beans if they’ve thickened up during storage. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

Quick Questions

Can I use canned beans for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pinto beans are a great time-saver. Just make sure to rinse and drain them before using.

What if I don’t have pinto beans?

No problem! You can easily substitute with black beans or kidney beans for a different flavor profile.

Can I freeze refried beans?

Yes, you can freeze Easy Refried Beans. Just let them cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to 3 months.

How can I make these beans spicier?

To add some heat, consider including diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking. Adjust according to your spice tolerance!

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed making Easy Refried Beans, you might also like:

• Vegetarian Tacos
• Vegan Burrito Bowl
• Vegan Chili
• Easy Salsa Recipe

Make It Tonight

Now that you have the scoop on making Easy Refried Beans, there’s no reason not to try it tonight! With just a handful of ingredients and a short cooking time, you can create a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite Mexican meals. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delightful flavors of homemade refried beans! Whether you enjoy them on their own, as a dip, or as a filling, they’re sure to be a hit at your table. Happy cooking!