How to Make Delicious Black Bean Refried Beans From Scratch

Refried beans are a staple of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. Their rich, earthy flavor pairs perfectly with tacos, burritos, nachos, and more. While you can certainly use canned refried beans, homemade refried beans taste far superior. Plus, they are easy and inexpensive to make from scratch. This article will teach you how to make delicious black bean refried beans in your own kitchen.

Overview of Black Bean Refried Beans

Refried beans start with cooked beans that are then mashed and fried which concentrates their flavor. Traditional refried beans use pinto beans, but black beans make an excellent, more nutritious alternative. Black beans have a slightly sweeter more robust flavor that stands up well to spicy seasonings.

Refried black beans are incredibly versatile. They can be used as a side dish, dip, or filling for tacos, quesadillas, burritos, and more. Their creamy, flavorful texture pairs perfectly with cheese, salsa, avocado, rice, and other Tex-Mex staples. Homemade refried beans taste far better than anything from a can. Plus, you can control the ingredients to make a healthier version.

Benefits of Homemade Refried Black Beans

There are many benefits to making your own refried black beans rather than using canned

• Superior flavor – Homemade allows you to use fresh, flavorful spices and customize the taste precisely to your liking Canned beans have a more generic flavor

• Better texture – It’s easy to achieve a smooth, creamy texture when making them yourself. Canned beans can be pasty.

• More nutrients – Homemade retains more nutrients that are lost in the canning process. Fiber is a key benefit of beans.

• Less sodium – Canned beans are extremely high in sodium. Homemade allows you to control the salt.

• Cost savings – Basic ingredients to make refried beans are inexpensive. Per serving, homemade is cheaper than canned.

• Ingredient control – You can avoid additives, preservatives, and other undesirable ingredients found in canned beans.

Ingredients Needed to Make Refried Black Beans

The beauty of homemade refried black beans is that they require just a few simple ingredients:

• Black beans – Dry beans that are soaked and cooked or canned beans work equally well.

• Oil – For sautéing the beans. Vegetable, canola, olive oil, or lard if you want an authentic taste.

• Onion – Optional but adds flavor. Diced yellow or white onion is perfect.

• Garlic – Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma. Or use garlic powder for convenience.

• Spices – Cumin, oregano, chili powder, and a little cayenne pepper for heat.

• Chicken or vegetable broth – For thinning the beans to the perfect creamy consistency.

• Salt and pepper – For seasoning. Omit salt if using canned beans.

That’s really all you need for basic homemade refried black beans. Feel free to embellish with other ingredients like lime juice, cilantro, jalapeños, etc.

Step-By-Step Guide to Make Refried Black Beans

Here is an easy step-by-step walkthrough for how to make delicious refried black beans at home:

1. Cook the Black Beans

You can use either dry or canned beans. For dry beans:

• Pick over 1 pound dry black beans to remove any stones or debris. Rinse.

• Soak beans in water for at least 8 hours or up to 24 hours.

• Drain the soaked beans and place in a pot. Cover with fresh water by 2-3 inches.

• Bring to a boil then reduce heat. Simmer for 1-1.5 hours until soft.

For canned beans:

• Drain and rinse 2 (15 oz) cans black beans.

2. Prepare the Aromatics

• Dice 1 small yellow onion. Mince 2-3 cloves garlic.

• Warm 2 Tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

• Sauté onion for 2-3 minutes until soft. Add garlic and stir for 1 minute.

3. Mash and Fry the Beans

• Add the cooked black beans and 1/4 cup broth to the skillet.

• Use a potato masher to coarsely mash about half of the beans.

• Stir and fry for 2-3 minutes. Beans will thicken and start to get creamy.

• Mash more beans until most are spreadable but some whole beans remain.

4. Season the Beans

• Add spices: 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp oregano, 1/4 tsp chili powder, pinch cayenne.

• Stir in more broth as needed to achieve a spreadable but not runny texture.

• Remove from heat. Taste and add salt if needed. Add more spices to your taste.

5. Finish and Serve

• Garnish with cilantro, green onion, cheese, etc if desired.

• Enjoy your homemade refried black beans! Use immediately or let cool completely before storing.

And that’s it! With these simple steps you can have delicious homemade refried black beans that taste far better than canned.

Variations and Tips for Making Refried Black Beans

• For creamier beans, purée in a food processor or blender before frying.

• For authentic flavor, use lard or bacon grease instead of vegetable oil.

• Add minced jalapeño or chipotle peppers for a spicy kick.

• Finish with lime juice and cilantro for fresh flavor.

• Garnish with diced avocado, cheese, yogurt, etc.

• Store leftovers in the fridge up to 5 days. Freeze for longer storage.

• Add more or less liquid to achieve your perfect texture.

• Use other spices like smoked paprika, Mexican oregano, onion powder, cumin, etc.

• Cook and stir the beans longer for creamier, more spreadable texture.

• Use broth or bean liquid to thin. Water dilutes flavor.

With these simple tips, you can hone your homemade refried black beans until they are just right for you. The variations are endless!

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between refried beans and black beans?

Refried beans are cooked beans that are mashed and then fried to create a thick, spreadable texture. Black beans refers to the type of bean used. Any bean can be made into refried beans, but black beans are a popular choice.

Is lard essential for authentic Mexican-style refried beans?

No, but lard does impart a rich, savory flavor. Vegetable oil or olive oil can be substituted. Bacon grease also mimics the porkiness of lard.

Do the beans need to be fried? Can I skip this step?

Frying is what gives refried beans their rich flavor and creamy, spreadable texture. You can mash cooked beans without frying but they won’t have the same taste and texture.

Can refried beans be made ahead and reheated?

Absolutely! Make a big batch and refrigerate for up to 5 days before reheating gently on the stove or microwave. You can also freeze homemade refried beans for 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.

How thin or thick should the consistency be?

This is personal preference! Most people like refried beans that are thick enough to mound on a spoon but still spreadable. Add more or less liquid to suit your perfect texture.

Putting It All Together

Making homemade refried black beans truly is easy and inexpensive. With just a few pantry staples and simple techniques, you can create rich, flavorful refried beans far superior to anything from a can. Adjust the ingredients and seasoning to suit your tastes. Use your homemade beans anytime you want a boost of creamy, delicious flavor in your Mexican dishes.