Chef John's Refried Beans

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Are you craving a delicious and hearty side dish to accompany your Mexican-inspired meal?

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Chef John's Refried Beans
Prep
10 min
Cook
2 hr
Total
12 hr 10 min
Servings
8

Method

  1. Drain the soaked beans and transfer them to a stock pot.

  2. Add garlic, epazote (or substitute with dried oregano), and cold water to the pot.

  3. Place the pot over high heat and bring it to a boil, stirring occasionally.

  4. Reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer uncovered until they become soft, which should take around 1 1/2 to 2 hours.

  5. Drain the cooked beans, but make sure to reserve all the liquid.

  6. In a large skillet, melt lard over medium-high heat.

  7. Add onions and salt to the skillet and cook until the onions start to brown, which should take around 10 to 12 minutes.

  8. Stir in serrano pepper and chipotle powder, and cook for an additional minute.

  9. Transfer the drained beans into the skillet.

  10. Mash about half of the beans using a potato masher or the back of a spoon.

  11. Gradually add some of the reserved bean cooking liquid to the skillet while continuing to mash and stir the beans.

  12. Mash until the beans reach your desired consistency and texture.

  13. Taste the beans and add more salt if desired.

  14. If you want the beans to be loose enough to spoon over tortilla chips for nachos, you can add all of the reserved cooking liquid. However, the amount of liquid to add is up to your preference.

About this recipe

Are you craving a delicious and hearty side dish to accompany your Mexican-inspired meal? Look no further than Chef John's Refried Beans! These beans are the perfect combination of creamy texture and bold flavors. They are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters at your dinner table.

The Secret to Perfect Refried Beans

What makes Chef John's Refried Beans truly special is his secret ingredient: love. Just like any great chef, Chef John puts his heart and soul into every dish he creates. And these refried beans are no exception.

But it's not just love that sets these beans apart. Chef John also uses a unique blend of spices to elevate the flavor profile. With just the right amount of cumin, garlic, and chili powder, these beans will have your taste buds singing.

The Cooking Process

When it comes to cooking the beans, Chef John believes in taking it slow. He knows that good things come to those who wait. By simmering the beans on low heat for an extended period, he allows the flavors to meld together and develop a depth that is unmatched.

And don't worry about the time it takes to make these beans. While they do require a bit of patience, the end result is well worth it. You'll be rewarded with a dish that is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor.

Versatility at Its Finest

One of the best things about Chef John's Refried Beans is their versatility. They can be enjoyed as a side dish, a topping for tacos and burritos, or even as a main course with some rice and vegetables. The possibilities are endless!

So whether you're hosting a Mexican-themed dinner party or simply craving some comfort food, Chef John's Refried Beans are sure to impress. They are the perfect addition to any meal and will leave your guests begging for the recipe.

In Conclusion

Chef John's Refried Beans are the epitome of comfort food. With their creamy texture, bold flavors, and endless possibilities, they are a must-try for any food lover. So go ahead and give them a try. Your taste buds will thank you!

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Yes, you can use canned beans if you're short on time. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may not be the same as using dried beans.

. How long do I need to simmer the beans?

It's best to simmer the beans for at least 2 hours to achieve the desired flavor and texture. However, you can simmer them for longer if you prefer a thicker consistency.

. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! Chef John's Refried Beans freeze well and can be stored for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool them completely before transferring them to an airtight container.

. Can I adjust the spice level?

Of course! If you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it altogether. Feel free to customize the spices to suit your personal preferences.

. Are these beans vegetarian-friendly?

Yes, Chef John's Refried Beans are vegetarian-friendly. They are made with plant-based ingredients and do not contain any animal products.

. Can I make these beans in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe for a slow cooker. Simply follow the same steps but cook the beans on low heat for 6-8 hours or until they reach the desired consistency.

. Can I add meat to the beans?

While Chef John's Refried Beans are delicious on their own, you can certainly add cooked bacon, chorizo, or shredded chicken for an extra protein boost and added flavor.

. Can I substitute pinto beans with black beans?

Absolutely! While pinto beans are traditionally used for refried beans, you can substitute them with black beans if you prefer. The end result will be just as delicious.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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