Frijoles Refritos (Refried Beans)

Frijoles de la Olla:

1. Measure out the beans. Spread the beans over your counter so you can look for beans that are broken, discolored, or shriveled and remove them. There will also be small stones or pebbles that should be sorted out of the beans during this phase. Discard all of the undesirable pieces.
2. Place beans in a colander. Rinse the beans thoroughly with cool water for about 3 minutes.
3. Pour the drained beans into a large pot. Add enough water to reach 3 inches over the beans. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cover and simmer until the beans are tender, about 3 - 4 hours, adding more hot water as the beans absorb liquid. Every pot is different and so check your beans after 2 hours. Most take 3 - 4 hours but I have a pot I love to cook my beans in because it only takes 2 hours.
4. Add salt and onions (onions are optional) about one hour before complete. Refrigerate beans when cooled. The beans can be frozen in small bowls for later use.
5. Beans can be refrigerated for (5) days.

Refried Beans:

1. Heat lard or olive oil in a medium cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beans and the liquid.
2. Cook over medium heat. While the beans are boiling mash them with a potato masher.
3. Continue to cook until they form a thick paste, about 10 minutes. Season to taste with salt.