These homemade refried beans are so delicious and oh-so-satisfying to make.
They’re perfect for taco night or as a dip to go with nachos.
How to Make Refried Beans
Make sure to purchase fresh dried beans. Sadly, old beans will never get soft no matter how long you cook them. Don’t ask me how I know. I just do.
Makes about 8 servings.
- 2 quarts of warm water (more if needed)
- 2 ham hocks or pork shanks (leave out for vegetarian or vegan option)
- 1 pound dried pinto beans
- 1 teaspoon epazote
- 6 cloves fresh garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup lard, bacon grease, or olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 teaspoons natural kosher seas salt (more if needed)
- 1 teaspoon chipotle powder (use less for not so spicy)
- Cotija cheese (optional topping)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional topping)
Fill a large pot with water. Add the pork shanks or ham hocks to the water.
Rinse beans and place them in the pot. Discard any beans or pieces that float.
Add the epazote and whole garlic cloves.
Place the pot over high heat and bring to a boil. After it starts to boil, reduce the heat to a simmer over medium-low heat.
Let the beans cook for at least 1 1/2 hours, If needed, you can add more hot water. Make sure all the beans and ham hocks are submerged in the water at all times. Hot water is best because cold water will slow down your cooking time.
Test a bean and make sure it is very soft. If they’re not done, add more hot water if needed and cook until soft.
When the beans are soft, drain them but save the broth. If using ham hocks or pork shanks, let them cool and remove any meat from them and add it into the beans. Discard the bones.
Place the lard in a large frying pan and heat over medium-high.
When the lard has melted, add onions. Cook for about 15 minutes.
Add the drained beans. Mash 1/2-3/4 of the beans with a potato masher or immersion blender.
Stir in the seasonings.
Add some of the bean broth back into the beans until they are the consistency you would like them to be.
Top with cotija cheese and cilantro if you like.