Refried beans are a staple in Mexican cuisine, known for their creamy texture and rich flavor. The Ultimate Refried Beans with Cheese takes this classic dish to a new level by adding cheese and other flavorful ingredients. This dish is perfect as a side, a filling for burritos and tacos, or a dip with tortilla chips. Let’s dive into the origins of this beloved recipe and discover how to make it even more delicious.
The Origins of Refried Beans
Refried beans, or “frijoles refritos” in Spanish, are not actually fried twice, as the name might suggest. Instead, the term “refried” is derived from the Spanish word “refritos,” which means “well-fried.” Traditionally made from pinto or black beans, refried beans are cooked and mashed before being fried or sautéed with lard or oil. This process gives them their signature creamy texture and deep flavor.
Ingredients
To make the Ultimate Refried Beans with Cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups dried pinto beans or 2 cans (15 ounces each) of canned refried beans
- 4 cups water (if using dried beans)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or lard
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
What Kind of Cheese Goes on Refried Beans?
Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses are popular choices for topping refried beans. These cheeses melt beautifully, adding a creamy and slightly tangy flavor that complements the beans’ richness. If you’re looking for more variety, consider trying queso fresco or cotija cheese for a traditional Mexican touch.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create the Ultimate Refried Beans with Cheese:
Preparation
- Prepare the Beans: If using dried pinto beans, rinse them under cold water and remove any debris. In a large pot, combine the beans and water, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the beans are tender. Drain the beans, reserving some of the cooking liquid for later use.
- Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from the skillet, crumble, and set aside.
Cooking the Beans
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil or lard over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Mash the Beans: Add the cooked beans to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash the beans until they reach your desired consistency. If the mixture is too thick, add some reserved cooking liquid or water to achieve the desired texture.
- Season the Beans: Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Continue to cook the beans, stirring frequently, for about 10 minutes until the flavors meld together.
Adding the Cheese
- Incorporate the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the shredded cheese over the mashed beans. Stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated into the mixture.
- Add the Bacon: If using, stir in the crumbled bacon for added flavor and texture.
Serving
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the refried beans to a serving dish and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve warm as a side dish, filling, or dip.
Tips and Variations
How to Make Refried Beans More Interesting?
- Add Spices: Enhance the flavor of your refried beans by adding spices like smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky kick.
- Mix in Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed bell peppers, jalapeños, or tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
- Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or gouda, for a unique taste.
Why Do Restaurant Refried Beans Taste So Good?
Restaurant-style refried beans often have a smooth and creamy texture, achieved by using plenty of fat, such as lard or butter. To replicate this at home, be generous with the oil or lard and mash the beans thoroughly for a silky finish.
What Do You Eat Refried Beans With?
Refried beans are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:
- As a Side Dish: Serve alongside Mexican dishes like enchiladas, tacos, or grilled meats.
- In Burritos or Tacos: Use as a filling for burritos, tacos, or quesadillas.
- As a Dip: Pair with tortilla chips, salsa, and guacamole for a delicious dip.
- On Nachos: Layer over tortilla chips with cheese, jalapeños, and salsa for ultimate nachos.
Variations
- Ultimate Refried Beans with Cheese and Bacon: Add crumbled bacon for a savory twist.
- Baked Refried Beans: After mixing in the cheese, transfer the beans to a baking dish, top with additional cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly and golden.
- Old El Paso Refried Beans Recipe: Try using Old El Paso refried beans for a quick and easy version of this recipe.
- Canned Refried Beans Recipe: Use canned refried beans as a time-saving option. Simply heat and season to taste before adding cheese and other ingredients.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the basic nutritional information for a serving of Ultimate Refried Beans with Cheese (per serving, based on eight servings):
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 6g
Conclusion
The Ultimate Refried Beans with Cheese is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings the authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine to your table. Whether you enjoy them as a side dish, filling, or dip, these beans are sure to impress your family and friends. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below!
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