Frijoles refritos

frijoles_refritos

Frijoles refritos, or traditional Mexican refried beans, have become a staple food in many households around the world. This classic dish is known for its rich flavor, creamy texture, and versatility in complementing a wide range of dishes. Frijoles refritos are traditionally prepared using pinto beans, although other varieties of beans such as black beans, navy beans, and kidney beans can be used as well. This recipe is the perfect way to enhance any meal and add a touch of authentic Mexican flavor.

In Mexican cuisine, beans are a fundamental ingredient that is commonly used in a variety of dishes such as burritos, tacos, enchiladas, and more. Frijoles refritos are often served as a side dish, but they can also be used as a filling for other dishes such as bean dip or as a topping on nachos. Refrying the beans adds to their creamy texture and makes them more flavorful by caramelizing the beans on the bottom of the pan.

The first step in making frijoles refritos is to cook the beans. You can use canned beans or cook the beans from scratch. It’s important to cook the beans until they are very tender, as this will make them easier to mash. Once the beans are cooked, they are drained and then mashed until they are smooth.

Now, it’s time to fry the beans. Frying the beans involves cooking them in oil until they are crispy and golden brown. This process also caramelizes the beans, which adds depth of flavor to the dish. When frying the beans, it’s important to use a heavy-bottomed pan to help prevent sticking and burning.

The next step is to add the seasoning. The traditional seasoning for frijoles refritos includes garlic, cumin, and chili powder. These spices add a rich and smoky flavor, which pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the beans. Other seasonings such as onion powder, smoked paprika, or coriander can also be added to customize the flavor.

As the beans are stirred and seasoned, they will continue to cook and thicken, so it’s important to add additional liquid to prevent them from drying out. Chicken or vegetable broth can be added, as well as water, until the beans reach the desired consistency. And in the final stages, it’s common to add a dollop of lard or bacon fat to enhance the flavor and further enrich the beans' texture.

The finished product is a creamy and flavorful dish that is the perfect complement to many Mexican meals. Frijoles refritos can also be used as a base for other dishes such as bean burritos or Mexican dip. They can be garnished with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, cheese, or a dollop of sour cream. This classic Mexican dish is a comfort food that is sure to satisfy any appetite.

To sum it up, frijoles refritos are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side dish or used as a base for many different Mexican dishes. The dish is popular worldwide due to its rich flavor and creamy texture that comes from the caramelized beans. It’s also very easy to make, especially using canned beans, and can be customized with different spices and seasonings. Whether you are cooking for one or for a large group, frijoles refritos are a must-try recipe for anyone who wants to experience the authentic taste of Mexican cuisine.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of cooked pinto beans
  • 4 tbsp of oil
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 tsp of ground cumin
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1/4 cup of water

Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add in the minced garlic and chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.

  2. Add in the cooked pinto beans and stir well.

  3. Use a potato masher or the back of a wooden spoon to mash the beans until they are smooth and creamy.

  4. Add in the ground cumin and salt to taste. Stir well.

  5. Pour in 1/4 cup of water to the skillet and continue to stir until the beans are heated through and have a smooth and creamy texture.

  6. Remove from heat and serve hot.

Note: Frijoles refritos can be served as a side dish or as a filling for tacos, burritos, or tostadas. Feel free to top with your favorite toppings such as cheese, sour cream, or diced tomatoes. Enjoy!