Secrets of Making Your Own Refried Beans

Refried beans, or frijoles refritos, are a staple of Mexican cuisine. Most people buy them from the supermarket in a jar or can, but making your own is actually a lot easier than you think. Sweat one peeled and chopped onion in a little oil in a saucepan. Add a little garlic and a chopped chili (or two, if you're feeling brave.) Allow the mixture to cook slowly. The cheat part of this is that instead of cooking the beans twice – boiling first and then frying, use a can of beans. Red beans are the best choice, but you can experiment. Add the beans, and a can of chopped tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper, and simply cook until reduced and thick. You can mash the bean mixture while cooking, to break them up and get the right consistency . Use your refried beans on nachos, tacos, in burritos or as a dip.