Description
Refried Beans offer a rich, creamy texture and hearty flavor using simple, wholesome ingredients. This versatile and plant-based recipe is perfect as a side dish, spread, or dip for tacos, burritos, and more. Easy to customize and packed with fiber and protein, these beans become a comforting favorite in any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pinto beans
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Flavor Enhancers
- 1 tsp ground cumin (natural)
- 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
- 1/2 tsp natural gelling agent
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until translucent and slightly golden. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing its aroma to develop.
- Add Spices and Beans: Sprinkle in ground cumin and stir to gently toast the spices. Pour in the cooked pinto beans, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, and vegetable broth to loosen the mixture for blending.
- Mash and Cook: Using a potato masher or fork, mash the beans in the pan until smooth but leaving some texture if you prefer. Stir continuously over medium heat for approximately 10 minutes to thicken and integrate flavors.
- Adjust Texture with Natural Gelling Agent: Sprinkle the natural gelling agent evenly to enhance creaminess and thickness. Stir thoroughly to avoid clumping and distribute it well.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust spices or broth to reach your desired flavor and consistency. Serve warm for the best experience.
Notes
- Use fresh onions and garlic to maximize flavor.
- Do not over-mash; leaving some texture adds a rustic touch.
- Simmer gently over medium to low heat to develop deep flavors without burning.
- Add vegetable broth gradually to control the consistency.
- Let the beans rest after cooking to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: refried beans, pinto beans, plant-based, appetizer, side dish, Mexican cuisine, creamy beans, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
