How to Make Refried Beans Like Mexican Restaurants
Refried beans are a staple in Mexican cuisine, often served alongside tacos, burritos, and many other dishes. If you’ve ever wondered how to make refried beans that taste just like those served in Mexican restaurants, you’re in luck. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve that authentic flavor.
Ingredients
Before you start, gather the following ingredients:
– 2 cups dried pinto beans
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons lard or vegetable shortening
– Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, or cheese
Preparation
1. Rinse the dried pinto beans under cold water and remove any stones or debris. Soak the beans in water for at least 8 hours or overnight. This will help them cook faster and more evenly.
2. Drain and rinse the soaked beans. Place them in a large pot and cover with 4 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the beans for about 1 hour or until they are tender.
3. While the beans are cooking, heat the olive oil in a separate skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine the spices with the onions and garlic.
Refrying the Beans
1. Once the beans are cooked, remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly. Drain the beans, reserving the cooking liquid.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine 1 cup of the cooked beans and 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid. Blend until smooth. Repeat this process with the remaining beans and cooking liquid, blending each batch separately.
3. In a large skillet, melt the lard or vegetable shortening over medium heat. Add the blended bean mixture to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, for about 10 minutes. The mixture should start to thicken and become creamy.
4. Continue to cook and stir the refried beans for another 10-15 minutes, until they reach your desired consistency. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serving
Serve the refried beans warm, topped with your favorite toppings such as avocado, cilantro, or cheese. They are perfect as a side dish or as a base for other Mexican dishes.
Now that you know how to make refried beans like those served in Mexican restaurants, you can enjoy this delicious dish at home whenever you want. ¡Buen provecho!
