Cuban-Spiced Refried Beans with Chorizo
This hearty and flavorful dish combines creamy Cuban-spiced refried beans with the rich, savory notes of Spanish chorizo. Perfect as a standalone dip with crunchy tortilla chips or toasted bread, this versatile spread can also be used to fill warm tortillas for delicious burritos or to accompany rice dishes. The wonderful blend of garlic, onion, and authentic spices makes it an ideal addition to any meal, elevating simple ingredients to a delightful culinary experience. Enjoy it as a snack, side dish, or part of a larger feast — the options are endless!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
small white beans or cannellini beans
1 (15 1/2 ounce) can (canned, drained)
onion
1/2 medium (chopped)
garlic cloves
2 (pressed)
olive oil
1/4 cup (for frying)
Spanish chorizo
1 (fried and crumbled)
salt
to taste
pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, bring the canned beans to a gentle boil over medium heat.
2
Once boiling, strain the liquid from the beans and set aside, discarding any excess liquid.
3
Using a fork, loosely mash the beans in the saucepan, leaving some whole for texture.
4
In a skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat and fry the Spanish chorizo until browned and cooked through. Remove the chorizo from the skillet, crumbling it into smaller pieces, and discard any excess fat left in the pan.
5
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
6
Add the pressed garlic to the skillet, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
7
Stir in the mashed beans, crumbled chorizo, and reserve any cooking liquid if necessary to achieve a creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8
Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, until everything is heated through and the flavors meld together, approximately 5-7 minutes.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Cuban-Spiced Refried Beans with Chorizo?
This is a hearty dish that combines creamy mashed white beans with savory Spanish chorizo, garlic, and onions for a flavorful spread or side.
What kind of beans should I use for this recipe?
The recipe calls for a 15.5 ounce can of small white beans or cannellini beans.
Can I use black beans instead of white beans?
Yes, while the flavor profile will change slightly, black beans are a staple in Cuban cooking and work well in this format.
What type of chorizo is best?
Spanish chorizo is recommended as it is typically cured and provides a firm, smoky texture once fried.
How do I prepare the Spanish chorizo?
Fry the chorizo in a skillet until browned, then remove it from the pan and crumble it into small pieces.
Is this recipe spicy?
It is savory and aromatic; the spice level depends mostly on the specific brand of chorizo you choose.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, substitute the Spanish chorizo with a plant-based soy chorizo.
How do I achieve a creamy consistency?
Reserve some of the cooking liquid after boiling the beans and stir it back in as you mash them.
Should I mash all of the beans?
No, it is best to loosely mash them while leaving some whole for a more interesting texture.
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, but you will need to soak and boil the dried beans until tender before proceeding with the refrying steps.
How long should I sauté the onions?
Sauté the chopped onions for approximately 3 to 4 minutes until they are translucent.
What are some serving suggestions for this dish?
Serve it as a dip with tortilla chips, a spread for toasted bread, or as a filling for burritos.
Is this recipe suitable as a snack?
Yes, it makes an excellent hearty snack when paired with crackers or bread.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze refried beans with chorizo?
Yes, these beans freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
How do I reheat the beans?
Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the mixture has thickened too much.
What is the role of garlic in this recipe?
The garlic provides an essential aromatic base that defines the Cuban-inspired flavor profile.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes, finely diced bell peppers or tomatoes can be sautéed with the onions for added flavor.
What kind of oil should I use for frying?
The recipe suggests using a 1/4 cup of olive oil for frying the ingredients.
What should I do if the beans are too dry?
Stir in a small amount of the reserved bean liquid or water until you reach your desired creaminess.
Can I use Mexican chorizo instead of Spanish?
You can, but Mexican chorizo is raw and greasy, so you must cook it thoroughly and drain the fat well.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The primary ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check the label on your chorizo to ensure no fillers contain gluten.
What makes this 'Cuban-spiced'?
The combination of white beans, heavy garlic, and sautéed onions reflects traditional Cuban culinary techniques.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe typically serves 4 to 6 people as a side dish or appetizer dip.
Can I add cheese to the beans?
Yes, topping the beans with crumbled cotija or shredded cheddar adds a delicious salty finish.
How can I make the dish spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños during the onion sautéing step.
Is this recipe difficult to make?
No, it is considered an easy recipe that takes minimal time and uses simple kitchen tools.
Can I prepare this in a slow cooker?
While the stovetop is fastest, you can combine the prepared ingredients in a slow cooker on low to keep them warm for a party.
What type of onion is best?
A medium white or yellow onion is best for a balanced, savory sweetness.
Can I serve this dish cold?
It is best served warm to keep the chorizo fat liquid and the beans creamy, but it can be eaten at room temperature.