Easy + Creamy Refried Beans Life Made Simple from lifemadesimplebakes.com
Introduction
Refried beans are a staple in Mexican cuisine. They are a popular side dish and can also be used as a filling for burritos, tacos, and enchiladas. The term "refried" is actually a misnomer as the beans are not fried twice. They are cooked once, mashed, and then cooked again with added flavorings.
Ingredients
The ingredients for this recipe are simple and easy to find. You will need: - 2 cans of pinto beans (15 oz each) - 1 onion, chopped - 2 cloves of garlic, minced - 2 tbsp of oil (vegetable or olive oil) - 1 tsp of ground cumin - 1 tsp of chili powder - 1/2 tsp of salt - 1/4 tsp of black pepper - 1/4 cup of water
Instructions
1. Start by draining and rinsing the pinto beans under running water. Set them aside. 2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. 3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. 4. Add the drained pinto beans to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion and garlic. 5. Add the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to the skillet and stir to combine. 6. Pour the water into the skillet and stir again to combine all the ingredients. 7. Reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. 8. Use a potato masher or a fork to mash the beans in the skillet until they are smooth and creamy. 9. If the beans are too thick, add more water to the skillet, a tablespoon at a time, until they reach the desired consistency. 10. Taste the refried beans and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Nutrition
Refried beans are a good source of protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates. They are also low in fat and calories. One serving of this recipe yields about 1 cup of refried beans, which contains approximately: - Calories: 211 - Fat: 6g - Carbohydrates: 30g - Fiber: 9g - Protein: 10g
Variations
There are many variations of refried bean recipes. You can customize the recipe to your liking by adding different spices and herbs. Here are some variations to try: - Add chopped jalapeno peppers or green chilies for a spicy kick. - Use black beans instead of pinto beans for a different flavor and color. - Add a splash of lime juice or vinegar for a tangy flavor. - Top the refried beans with shredded cheese, chopped tomatoes, and cilantro for a colorful and flavorful garnish.
Serving Suggestions
Refried beans are a versatile side dish that can be served with many different meals. Here are some serving suggestions: - Serve as a side dish with Mexican-inspired meals, such as tacos, burritos, or enchiladas. - Use as a filling for quesadillas or empanadas. - Spread on a tortilla and top with cheese and vegetables for a quick and easy snack. - Serve as a dip with tortilla chips or raw vegetables.
Tips
Here are some tips to make the perfect refried beans: - Use good quality canned beans or cook your own from scratch. - Be patient when cooking the onion and garlic. They should be soft and translucent before adding the beans. - Use a potato masher or a fork to mash the beans, as a blender or food processor can make them too smooth. - Add water to the skillet as needed to reach the desired consistency. - Taste the refried beans and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Conclusion
Refried beans are a delicious and nutritious side dish that can be customized to your liking. This recipe is easy to make and uses simple ingredients. Serve them with your favorite Mexican-inspired meals or use them as a filling for snacks and appetizers. Try different variations and toppings to make them your own. Enjoy!
