Dinner, Recipes

Homemade Refried Beans

Homemade Refried Beans are a hearty, flavorful staple that adds richness to any meal, from tacos to burrito bowls. This homemade version is creamy, satisfying, and simple to make(you might never buy canned again!)

Ever wondered why they’re called refried beans? Ever imagine if you have to ‘fry’ them? Or is this just a dietitian’s mind at work? My first introduction to refried beans was when I lived in Texas. My coworkers and I would make lunch together, where we each prepared a part of it and then sat down to eat. The homemade refried beans were so delicious. I was told they were pureed and not refried in ‘lard’. Twenty-five years later, I set out to confirm if I could make homemade refried beans sans the bacon and/or lard. Read on to find out!

In Spanish, they’re called ‘frijoles refritos’, where ‘frijoles’ means beans and ‘refritos’ means well-fried and/or thoroughly cooked. In Spanish, the ‘re-‘ prefix doesn’t mean again like in English; instead, it means wholly or intensely. So, refried beans aren’t fried twice. Instead, they’re just cooked, then mashed and/or sautéed in oil (or lard) or broth to make them creamy and flavorful. I just recently started making my homemade pinto beans at home. And now I can use those pinto beans to make my homemade refried beans; the possibilities are endless. I cannot wait to start on tacos, burrito bowls, burritos, beans, and rice! (Have I convinced you yet to start eating more beans?!)

Eat More Beans

Once again, beans are the star of the show. If I haven’t convinced you, start looking for ways to incorporate more beans into your diet! Black beans, pinto beans, and lentils, oh my! There are many varieties, and there are numerous ways to prepare beans, making it that much easier to find a way you like to eat them.

Soup, a dip like hummus, or even a snack to munch on! The health benefits of beans keep adding up: they are high in fiber, which helps lower LDL (‘lousy’) cholesterol; they help regulate blood sugar levels because they contain complex carbs, lean protein, and fiber; and high fiber intake is linked to a lower risk of many types of cancer. And that’s just a few benefits, as there are many more. Eat more beans; this homemade ‘refried’ bean recipe might be the way!

close up of grated garlic for homemade refried beans

ingredients to make homemade refried beans: pinto beans, garlic, onion, lime juice, broth, cotija cheese, cilantro

Ingredients: Homemade Refried Beans

Pinto Beans: Refried beans are traditionally made with pinto beans. You may find black bean versions; however, pinto beans are traditional. They are creamier and have a better flavor and texture. Additionally, you can use either canned pinto beans or homemade pinto beans. Either will work; you decide. Opt for lower-sodium varieties or those with no added salt when buying canned.
Broth/Stock: You can save some of the broth from the cooked beans using the homemade variety. If you didn’t save any, you can use low-sodium vegetable broth and/or stock, as the beans will cook in.
Onion and Garlic: When sautéed and cooked, these add extra flavor to the beans. They are subtle and straightforward, but a must-add!
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Traditional recipes often use lard here; however, extra-virgin olive oil still yields delicious-tasting beans and keeps them heart-healthy!
Lime: *Optional—a slight spritz at the end will give these beans that extra ‘what flavor is that?’ feel to the recipe. It’s not necessary, but it’s a nice addition.
Cilantro: *Optional—this may depend on what you use the beans for and whether you add the cilantro. Here’s hoping cilantro doesn’t taste like soap to you!
Jalapeno: *It’s optional, but you can also add it if you want to add a little extra heat to the recipe!

sautéing onion and garlic for homemade refried beans

adding in broth to make homemade refried beans

How To Make Homemade Refried Beans

Heat the oil in a large skillet or pot. Add the onion, garlic, and jalapeno (if using). Cook for about 5 minutes, until the onions are soft.
Add the cooked beans to the skillet and cook for a few minutes. Then, mix 2/3 cup of the reserved bean broth or broth/stock. Continue simmering (at a lower temperature) for 8-10 minutes.
Mash the beans using a potato masher for a chunky texture, or puree them using an immersion blender or food processor for a smoother texture. Depending on how thick or thin you like your beans’ texture, you may need to add more reserved cooking liquid and/or stock or broth, 1/4 cup at a time.
Adjust the seasonings to your liking by adding salt and pepper as needed. Spritz with half a lime juice.

starting to puree the homemade refried beans

completely pureed homemade refried beans

What type of beans are used to make refried beans?

Refried beans are traditionally made from pinto beans and seasoned with spices and herbs. Although you may see versions made with black beans online, I think pinto beans are the creamiest and most delicious.

Can I use canned beans?

Yes! You absolutely can use canned beans! That will help cut back on the cooking time considerably. Opt for canned beans that are either low in sodium or have no added salt. This way, you can help manage your health condition and the amount you add in! Use my homemade pinto beans recipe to prepare your beans at home. Leave the beans whole and don’t puree them.

What are a few ways I can eat or use these refried beans?

You can serve them with Mexican rice (also traditional) as a topping for a tostada (recipe coming soon!) or as a filling for bean burritos.

How do I store refried beans?

Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. If you plan to freeze them, allow the beans to cool completely, then place them in a freezer bag and/or a freezer-safe container. These beans can be frozen for up to three months.

Ways To Eat Beans