Quick Refried Pinto Beans

For the Seasoned Refried Beans

A humble staple turned hearty treasure—these beans be smooth as still waters and bold as a cannon's roar.

Ingredients

• 1 can pinto beans, drained (reserve liquid)
• 2 tablespoons neutral oil (e.g., canola or vegetable)
• ½ white onion, finely diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder
• 1 to taste Cholula hot sauce
• 1 to taste kosher salt
• 1 to taste freshly ground black pepper
• 1 as needed water or reserved bean liquid

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add drained pinto beans to the skillet. Stir and begin mashing with a potato masher or the back of a spoon.
4. Sprinkle in cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and season with salt and pepper. Add Cholula to taste.
5. Continue mashing and stirring, adding water or reserved bean liquid gradually to reach desired consistency.
6. Cook until beans are hot and creamy, about 5–7 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Prep: 5 min • Cook: 15 min • Wait: No time