The SECRET to Making the BEST REFRIED BEANS at Home, Better than any AUTHENTIC MEXICAN RESTAURANT

sour cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: plain yogurt

Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining creaminess

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: monterey jack

Monterey jack is often less expensive and melts well.

Clean 1 pound of pinto beans, removing broken beans and rocks.

Rinse the beans in cold water.

Skip soaking overnight; cook beans in an Instant Pot instead.

Add 8 cups of water and salt to the Instant Pot, set to bean setting, and cook on high pressure for 45 minutes.

Allow beans to sit for 20-30 minutes after cooking.

Strain the broth from the cooked beans.

In a pan set to medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of bacon fat.

Add 1/2 onion and 1 jalapeno, cooking for a couple of minutes.

Add 1 mashed garlic clove and cook for 30 seconds.

Add the cooked beans and mix, adding about 1 cup of liquid depending on desired consistency.

Allow to come to a simmer and taste for salt.

Smash the beans to desired consistency using a potato masher or electric blender, leaving some whole pieces.

Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken the beans.

Add cheese before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary