Vegan Refried Beans [Frijoles Refritos]

User Reviews

5

132 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    5 mins

  • Cook Time

    40 mins

  • Total Time

    45 mins

  • Servings

    4 - 6

  • Calories

    292 kcal

  • Course

    Dinner

  • Cuisine

    American

Vegan Refried Beans [Frijoles Refritos]

Vegan Refried Beans are made from canned pinto beans cooked with aromatics and spices, then gently mashed to a thick, hearty texture. The combination of cumin, Mexican oregano, and paprika infuses the beans with warm, earthy flavors while the slow simmering allows the mix to thicken naturally. This plant-based side dish is versatile for Mexican-style meals and can be adjusted to a preferred consistency.

Description

This recipe prepares refried beans from drained canned pinto beans sautéed with finely diced red onion, minced garlic, and spices including cumin, Mexican oregano, and paprika. After cooking with water to soften and blend the flavors, the beans are mashed gradually while cooking further to reach a desired consistency. The slow evaporation of liquid during mashing helps thicken the beans to a creamy yet textured mash that is characteristic of refried beans.

The use of canned beans streamlines the preparation, while the fresh onion and garlic provide aromatic depth. The spices give a traditional Mexican flavor profile without adding heat. The method allows flexibility to leave beans chunkier or smoother depending on taste preferences by adjusting how much mashing is done.

These vegan refried beans can accompany tacos, burritos, or rice dishes. Adjusting the seasoning at the end ensures the right balance of salt and spice, while adding water or broth can alter the thickness before serving.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 2 pinto beans drained and rinsed, 15.5-ounce cans
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small red onion finely diced
  • 3 garlic minced, cloves
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano dry
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 cup of water
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse and drain the beans and have them ready.
  2. In a medium pan with a lid, over medium high heat, heat the oil.
  3. Add the onion and garlic and saute for 20 seconds, constantly mixing with a wooden spoon.
  4. Lower the heat to a medium low and add the cumin, oregano, and paprika. Constantly mixing, cook for 10 seconds. Add the beans and mix well.
  5. Add the water, turn the heat up to medium high and bring to a boil. Cover with a lid, and lower the heat to a simmer. Cook for 30 minutes. Check every 10 minutes to make sure it is not sticking to the bottom of the pot.
  6. Remove the lid, turn the head up to a medium high, and with the wooden spoon, gently start mashing all of the beans. During this process make sure to mix as you mash the beans. This will help any extra water to evaporate and the mashing of the beans will also thicken the mixture.
  7. Continue cooking on high heat and mixing at the same time until the desired consistency is achieved.
  8. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Dice onions finely to integrate smoothly into the bean mixture without noticeable crunch.
  • Control bean texture by mashing partially for chunkier beans or fully blending for a smoother consistency.
  • Add extra water or broth during cooking to adjust thickness as desired.
  • Season refried beans at the end of cooking and adjust spices to personal taste.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 292kcal (15%) Carbohydrates 38g (13%) Protein 11g (22%) Fat 12g (18%) Saturated Fat 2g (10%) Polyunsaturated Fat 2g (12%) Monounsaturated Fat 8g (40%) Sodium 604mg (25%) Potassium 682mg (15%) Fiber 11g (44%) Sugar 4g (8%) Vitamin A 262IU (5%) Vitamin C 4mg (4%) Calcium 129mg (13%) Iron 4mg (22%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4- 6

Amount Per Serving

Calories 292 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 292kcal 15%
Carbohydrates 38g 13%
Protein 11g 22%
Fat 12g 18%
Saturated Fat 2g 10%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2g 12%
Monounsaturated Fat 8g 40%
Sodium 604mg 25%
Potassium 682mg 15%
Fiber 11g 44%
Sugar 4g 8%
Vitamin A 262IU 5%
Vitamin C 4mg 4%
Calcium 129mg 13%
Iron 4mg 22%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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5

132 reviews
Excellent

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