Refried Beans Without the Refry
Discover the ultimate shortcut to creamy, flavorful refried beans without the hassle—or the added oil—of frying! This "Refried Beans Without the Refry" recipe is a wholesome, healthier take on a beloved classic, made with tender simmered pinto beans, aromatic garlic, and a hint of earthy cumin. With just a handful of pantry staples and no frying involved, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect as a side, taco topping, or filling for burritos. The optional olive oil and lime juice let you customize the richness and zest to your liking! Ready in about 2 hours (mostly hands-off!), this smooth and hearty recipe is as versatile as it is nourishing. Say goodbye to canned beans and hello to effortless homemade goodness.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried pinto beans
- 6 cups water
- 1 onion, peeled and halved
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional)
Instructions
Rinse the dried pinto beans under cold water, discarding any stones or debris.
In a large pot, combine the rinsed beans, water, halved onion, peeled garlic, and salt.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Cover the pot, leaving the lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape.
Cook the beans for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they are tender and easily mashed with a fork. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed to keep the beans submerged.
Once the beans are fully cooked, remove and discard the onion halves.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the beans and garlic to a blender or food processor. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot.
Add 1 cup of the cooking liquid to the beans and blend until smooth. For a chunkier consistency, pulse the blender instead of blending fully.
Stir in the ground cumin and olive oil, if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and lime juice, if needed.
Serve warm as a side dish, or use as a base for tacos, burritos, or other Mexican-inspired dishes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
443 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 15.3 g | 20% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.2 g | 11% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2832 mg | 123% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 62.6 g | 23% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.5 g | 66% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.6 g | ||
| Protein | 18.4 g | 37% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 229 mg | 18% | |
| Iron | 6.0 mg | 33% | |
| Potassium | 1032 mg | 22% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
