Ingredients

2 cups dried pinto beans or 2 cups black beans
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 medium white onion , finely chopped
4 garlic cloves , finely chopped
salt
1/2 1/2 cup dry feta or 1/2 cup parmigiano-reggiano cheese , for garnish
Frijoles refritos, or refried beans, are a staple in Mexican cuisine and are commonly served as a side dish with rice, tacos, or other Mexican-inspired dishes. This homemade version is easy to make and requires only a few simple ingredients, making it a healthier alternative to canned refried beans. By simmering the dried beans with salt and then mashing them with onion, garlic, and cooking liquid, you can create a creamy and flavorful side dish that is perfect for a variety of meals. Finish the dish with some crumbled feta or grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese for an extra burst of flavor.

Instructions

1.Rinse the dried beans under running water to remove any impurities.
2.In a large pot, add the beans and enough water to cover them by 2 inches. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and bring the water to a boil.
3.Reduce the heat to low and simmer the beans for 1 to 2 hours, or until they are tender and fully cooked.
4.Drain the beans and reserve 1 cup of the cooking liquid.
5.In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté them until they are soft and fragrant, around 5 minutes.
6.Add the cooked beans to the skillet, along with 1/2 cup of the reserved cooking liquid. Using a potato masher or fork, mash the beans until they are smooth and creamy, adding more cooking liquid if necessary to reach the desired consistency.
7.Season with salt to taste.
8.Transfer the refried beans to a serving dish and garnish with crumbled feta or grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.

PROS

Refried beans are a versatile and delicious side dish, perfect for a variety of Mexican-inspired meals.

This recipe is easy to make and requires only a few simple ingredients.

Homemade refried beans are a healthier alternative to canned versions, which often contain added salt and preservatives.

CONS

The cooking process for this recipe can be time-consuming, requiring several hours to simmer the beans until they are fully cooked.

Additionally, refried beans are high in carbs and may not be suitable for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Refried beans are a good source of protein and fiber, making them a filling and satisfying addition to any meal.
They are also rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, potassium, and iron.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.