Homemade Refried Beans
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
8 hrs 10 mins
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Total Time
8 hrs 25 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
252 kcal
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Course
Appetizer, Condiments, Snacks
Homemade Refried Beans
Description
Homemade Refried Beans begin by slowly cooking dried pinto beans with aromatics like onion, jalapeño, and garlic in a mixture of chicken broth and water. Once the beans are soft, they are mashed to a creamy texture, with cooking liquid added as needed to achieve the desired consistency. The addition of cumin enhances the earthy flavor, and optional bacon drippings contribute a savory richness. This preparation results in beans that are tender and flavorful, ideal as a base or accompaniment in Mexican cuisine.
The mash can be adjusted to be smoother by blending, or left a bit chunky depending on preference. The jalapeño provides a mild heat which can be adjusted by adding more or substituting with milder chilis. Salt levels should be tasted and adjusted to preference after mashing. The slow cooker method allows for gentle cooking that softens the beans without risk of burning.
These refried beans pair well with tortillas, rice, or as a filling for burritos and tostadas. They can also serve as a protein-rich side dish or dip. Leftovers keep well and can be reheated gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if too thick.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pinto beans dried
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 onion finely diced
- 1 jalapeño fresh, seeded and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- ¾ teaspoon cumin
- 2 tablespoons bacon drippings optional, or butter
Instructions
- Rinse beans and check for dirt or debris.
- In a 4-quart slow cooker, add the rinsed beans, chicken broth, water, finely diced onion, chopped jalapeno pepper, minced garlic, salt, and cumin.
- Set the slow cooker to High heat and cook the beans for 8 hours or until they are tender.
- Remove the beans from the slow cooker, reserving the cooking liquid.
- Mash the beans to a creamy texture using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, gradually adding the reserved cooking liquid as needed. Add additional water if needed.
- Stir in bacon drippings if desired. Taste and season with salt & pepper.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, puree the beans with a hand blender or food processor.
- Adjust the spiciness by adding extra jalapeño or substituting with mild green chilis.
- Bacon drippings add extra flavor but can be substituted with butter for a vegetarian option.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 252 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 252 | 13% |
| Carbohydrates | 34g | 11% |
| Protein | 12g | 24% |
| Fat | 8g | 12% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Cholesterol | 7mg | 2% |
| Sodium | 1176mg | 49% |
| Potassium | 723mg | 15% |
| Fiber | 11g | 44% |
| Sugar | 2g | 4% |
| Vitamin A | 38IU | 1% |
| Vitamin C | 24mg | 27% |
| Calcium | 82mg | 8% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.