Grandmothers' recipes are those passed down from generation to generation, and sometimes without any special ingredients or special ingredients in themselves. The recipe for refried beans is a staple in the kitchens of Mexican homes and restaurants.
Called "chinitos" in some areas, this recipe is a popular side dish, usually for breakfast or lunch.
The texture of this recipe is one of the most important characteristics, as it should be creamy and smooth. For this, we'll share several tips, along with lots of facts about beans. Welcome to the world of refried beans, a typical dish of Mexican cuisine.
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Characteristics and peculiarities of refried beans
Although refried beans are known as a Mexican dish , they actually have their roots in Spanish cuisine. During the Spanish conquest, the Spanish introduced beans to Mexico , and the natives began cooking and refried them.
The term "refritos" : Despite their name, refried beans are not fried twice. The name comes from the literal translation from Spanish, as "refritos" means "well-fried" or "fried again ." The beans are actually cooked and then fried once.
This recipe is also part of dishes such as huevos divorciados , enchiladas potosinas , quesadillas and burritos , among others to give them more flavor and texture.
How healthy is it to eat refried beans, a popular Mexican food?
Beans are a common breakfast food in many countries. If you're not from one of those countries, you're probably wondering how healthy or beneficial their consumption is for the body.
Refried beans, like cooked beans, contain a good amount of fiber , which is beneficial for digestive health, blood sugar control, and satiety. It's important to note that refried beans are often prepared using oil or fat to fry them, which can increase their calorie and fat content.
If you choose to fry refried beans in fat, such as lard, you should consider the type of fat used and consume it in moderation. Lard is high in saturated fat. You may want to consider using healthier vegetable oils, such as olive oil or avocado oil, instead of animal fats.
Choosing the beans for our recipe
When choosing the type of bean to use, although the most common and recommended for this recipe is black, keep in mind that all types of beans (black, red, pinto, or white) are beneficial to your health and provide important nutrients.
Choosing the healthiest type of bean can depend on your dietary needs, personal preferences, and local availability. It's best to vary your bean intake and enjoy different types to get a wide range of nutrients.
Grandma's tips to make them perfect
- Seasoning : Onion, garlic, and spices are often used to flavor refried beans. Chopped onion and garlic are fried in hot oil before adding the beans to enhance the flavor. Cumin, chili powder, or other spices can also be added according to preference.
- Mashing : To achieve the smooth, creamy texture of refried beans, they need to be mashed. You can use a potato masher or even a fork to crush the beans. Some people prefer to leave some beans whole for a more rustic texture.
- Check the consistency : If the refried beans are too dry, add a little bean broth or hot water to soften the texture.
- Fat Options : Lard is commonly used to fry refried beans, giving them a traditional flavor.
Refried Beans Recipe
Refried beans are typically made by cooking beans and then frying them in oil with spices and seasonings. Once made, they can be easily frozen for longer storage. This makes them a convenient dish to prepare ahead of time and have on hand when needed.
Yield : 4 portions
Preparation time : 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked beans (black, pinto, or other beans of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or butter
- 1/2 chopped onion
- 2 chopped garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon of cumin powder
- Salt to taste
- Water (if needed to adjust consistency)
How to make refried beans
- In a large skillet, heat the oil or butter over medium heat and add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until golden brown and fragrant, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cooked beans to the pan, stir, and cook for a few minutes. For a smoother texture, use a potato masher or fork to mash the beans directly in the pan. Continue stirring until the desired consistency is reached.
- If the beans are too dry, add a little hot water or bean broth to adjust the consistency. Mix well, add ground cumin, and season with salt to taste. Continue cooking the beans for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust the salt and seasoning. Serve the refried beans hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, red onion, chili peppers, cheese, or other optional toppings if desired.
