How to Make Refried Beans from Canned Pinto Beans
Refried beans are a classic Mexican dish that is both versatile and easy to make. If you’re looking to prepare this delicious staple using canned pinto beans, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making refried beans from canned pinto beans, ensuring that your dish is flavorful and authentic.
Ingredients
Before you start, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) of pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, avocado, cilantro, or tortilla chips
Instructions
1.
Rinse and drain the pinto beans.
Pour the beans into a colander and rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess salt and debris. Set them aside.
2.
Heat the oil in a large skillet.
Place the skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3.
Add the garlic and spices.
Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, and chili powder. Cook for another minute to release the flavors of the spices.
4.
Crush the beans.
Add the drained pinto beans to the skillet and use a potato masher or fork to crush them. The beans should be broken down into a thick, paste-like consistency. If the mixture is too dry, add a small amount of water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
5.
Season and simmer.
Season the refried beans with salt and pepper to taste. Lower the heat to medium-low and let the beans simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the beans to reach the perfect texture.
6.
Serve and enjoy.
Once the refried beans have reached your desired consistency, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve them warm, garnished with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, avocado, cilantro, or tortilla chips.
Now that you know how to make refried beans from canned pinto beans, you can enjoy this delicious dish at home whenever you want. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, topping for tacos, or filling for burritos, refried beans are sure to elevate your Mexican cuisine. ¡Buon provecho!
