Savory Mexican Refried Beans with Caramelized Onions and Garlic
This flavorful recipe for Mexican Refried Beans combines the rich taste of caramelized onions and aromatic garlic with seasoned beans to create a luscious, creamy side dish. Perfectly seasoned and easy to prepare, these beans make an excellent accompaniment to any Mexican feast, from tacos to enchiladas. Prepare them ahead of time for a quick, satisfying addition to your meal – simply reheat and serve! Topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese and paired with crispy tortilla chips, this dish will be a hit at your next gathering.
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Bacon or Chorizo Drippings
2 tablespoons (melted)
White Onion
1 medium (chopped)
Garlic
4 cloves (peeled and finely chopped)
Seasoned Cooked Beans
4 cups (undrained and slightly warm)
Salt
to taste (none)
Monterey Jack Cheese
1/2 cup (shredded, for garnish)
Tortilla Chips
as desired (for garnish)
Instructions
1
In a large, well-seasoned or non-stick skillet, heat the bacon or chorizo drippings over medium heat until melted.
2
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until it turns deep golden and caramelized, about 10 minutes.
3
Add the chopped garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4
Using a slotted spoon, scoop approximately one-fourth of the warm beans into the skillet, leaving excess liquid behind.
5
With a bean masher or the back of a large spoon, mash the beans into a coarse puree, mixing them with the onion and garlic.
6
Continue this process, adding the remaining beans in portions, mashing them coarsely as you go until all beans have been mixed in.
7
Pour in about 1 cup of bean liquid or water to reach your desired consistency, and stir frequently over medium heat until the mixture is a bit looser than how you'd like to serve it—remember it will thicken as it cools.
8
Taste the beans and adjust the salt as needed.
9
Serve hot, garnished with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and accompanied by tortilla chips.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Mexican refried beans?
Mexican refried beans are cooked beans that are mashed and then fried in a pan with aromatics and fat to create a creamy side dish.
What makes this recipe unique?
The inclusion of caramelized onions and a generous amount of garlic adds a deep, savory sweetness and complexity to the beans.
Can I make these beans vegetarian?
Yes, simply substitute the bacon or chorizo drippings with vegetable oil, avocado oil, or vegan butter.
What type of beans should I use?
Pinto beans are traditional, but black beans or Mayocoba beans also work wonderfully for this recipe.
How do I caramelize the onions?
Cook chopped onions over medium heat in the fat for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently until they turn deep golden.
How long does it take to cook this dish?
Once the beans are cooked, the refrying and mashing process takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes.
Can I use canned beans?
Yes, canned beans work well; just ensure they are warmed through and you can use the liquid from the can or water for consistency.
What is the purpose of bacon or chorizo drippings?
They provide a smoky, savory depth of flavor that complements the natural earthiness of the beans.
Can I use oil instead of drippings?
Yes, olive oil, lard, or any neutral cooking oil are suitable substitutes for the drippings.
How do I get a creamy consistency?
Mashing the beans thoroughly and adding enough bean liquid or water helps achieve a smooth, luscious texture.
What if my beans are too thick?
Stir in a little more bean liquid or warm water until you reach your desired consistency.
What if my beans are too thin?
Continue cooking them over medium heat to evaporate excess moisture; remember they also thicken as they cool.
Can I make these beans in advance?
Absolutely, they can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the refrigerator until you are ready to reheat.
How should I reheat refried beans?
Reheat them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the texture as they warm.
Can I freeze refried beans?
Yes, these beans freeze well for up to three months when stored in an airtight, freezer-safe container.
How long do they stay fresh in the fridge?
When stored properly in a sealed container, they will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days.
What cheese goes best with these beans?
Monterey Jack is excellent for melting, but Queso Fresco, Cotija, or mild cheddar are also great choices.
Are refried beans actually fried twice?
No, the name comes from the Spanish 'frijoles refritos,' where 'refritos' actually means 'well-fried' rather than fried again.
What are the best toppings for refried beans?
Shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, sour cream, pickled jalapeños, or a spoonful of salsa are all excellent toppings.
Can I add spice to this recipe?
Yes, you can add diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the primary ingredients are naturally gluten-free; just ensure your tortilla chips and beans are processed in a gluten-free facility.
What should I serve with refried beans?
They are a perfect accompaniment to tacos, enchiladas, burritos, or served as a dip with tortilla chips.
Can I use red onions instead of white?
While white onions are traditional for their flavor profile, red onions can be used for a slightly different, sweeter taste.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 8 servings when used as a side dish.
What is the role of garlic in this recipe?
The garlic adds a pungent, aromatic quality that balances the sweetness of the caramelized onions and enriches the beans.
Do I need a special masher?
A bean masher is ideal, but a potato masher or even the back of a large sturdy spoon will work perfectly fine.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, beans are high in fiber and protein, making this a nutritious side dish when prepared with mindful fat choices.
Can I use black beans?
Yes, black beans make for a delicious and slightly heartier alternative to pinto beans in this recipe.
What type of white onion is best?
A standard white onion is best because it provides a sharp flavor that mellows and sweetens beautifully during caramelization.
Why add the beans in portions?
Adding and mashing them in stages ensures a more uniform texture and makes it easier to incorporate the aromatics evenly.