Refried Beans(Makes About 3 Cups)
Creamy, flavorful refried beans with smoky bacon fat and a hint of red pepper, perfect as a side or dip for hearty, comforting meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pick over the beans to remove any debris.
- Rinse the beans under cold running water.
- Combine the beans with water to cover in a large kettle.
- Bring the water to a boil and cook for 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the beans stand for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For creamier refried beans, consider adding a splash of vegetable broth or milk during mashing. If you don't have bacon fat, olive oil or butter can be good substitutes. To enhance flavor, try adding spices like cumin or chili powder. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon fat. This recipe is versatile and can be used in various Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve refried beans as a side dish with tacos, enchiladas, or as a dip with tortilla chips. They also pair beautifully with Enchilada Casserole for a hearty meal. Add toppings like diced onions, cheese, or cilantro for added flavor. These beans can also be incorporated into burritos or served alongside grilled meats.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover refried beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the mixture. You can also reheat in the microwave; just cover the dish to prevent splattering.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Refried Beans(Makes About 3 Cups) contains roughly 65 calories, with 4g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 757mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned beans for quicker preparation. Rinse and drain them before mashing. However, the flavor may be less robust than using dried beans. Adjust seasoning as needed, and cook briefly to combine flavors.
How can I make these beans spicier?
To add heat, increase the amount of liquid red pepper seasoning or incorporate diced jalapeños or serranos while cooking. You can also mix in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mashed beans for an extra kick.
Can I freeze refried beans?
Absolutely! Refried beans freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).