Refried Beans

Name: Refried Beans
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 tbsp lard or vegetable oil; 1/2 cup diced onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cans (15 oz each) pinto beans, drained, liquid reserved; 1/2 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, for serving (optional)

6 servings5 min prep15 min cookEasy

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The Story Behind It

The Tale of Refried Beans

Story updated September 18, 2026

Refried beans, or frijoles refritos, are a Mexican dish in which cooked beans are mashed and fried, traditionally with lard; despite the English name suggesting beans are fried twice, the Spanish "refritos" more likely means "well-fried." They're a staple across Mexican and Tex-Mex cooking.

Ingredients

Scale:· 6 servings

2 tbsp lard or vegetable oil
1/2 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (15 oz each) pinto beans, drained, liquid reserved
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1Heat the lard or oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the onion and garlic until softened, about 4 minutes.
2Add the pinto beans, cumin, and salt, mashing them with a potato masher or the back of a spoon as they cook.
3Stir in some of the reserved bean liquid a little at a time to reach a smooth, creamy consistency.
4Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring often, until heated through and slightly thickened.
5Top with shredded cheese if desired and serve warm.

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