Frijoles Refritos

Ingredients

Pinto beans

2 cups, cooked and drained

Vegetable oil

2 tablespoons

Onion

1 medium, chopped

Garlic

2 cloves, minced

Cumin

1 teaspoon

Salt

1 teaspoon, or to taste

Water

1/2 cup (adjust as necessary)

Cilantro

1/4 cup, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
3. Stir in the cooked pinto beans, using a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash them to your desired consistency. For a smoother texture, mash thoroughly.
4. Sprinkle in the cumin and salt, mixing well. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Pour water into the skillet and stir to combine. Adjust the amount of water based on how creamy you like your refried beans.
6. Reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help them thicken and develop deeper flavors.
7. If desired, stir in the chopped cilantro just before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.
8. Serve your frijoles refritos warm as a side dish, and enjoy with your favorite Mexican dishes or as a filling for burritos and tacos.