Refried Beans

I love Mexican food but I had never tried making my own refried beans before. I know I cheated by using canned beans but I just didn't have time to soak dried pinto beans. They were very quick and easy to make and they tasted delicious. I really loved the addition of the onion, garlic and jalapeno. The flavors were incredible. I also liked having some whole beans along with the mashed beans. My husband and I really loved them but our kids preferred the regular refried beans from the can. Oh well - more for us.

• 1 tsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp sweet yellow onion, diced finely
• 1/4 jalapeno, diced finely
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• 2 cans of pinto beans
• Sea salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste,
• Pinch of dried cumin
• Cotija cheese, finely grated

Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and jalapeno. Sauté until tender and golden, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and stir constantly for 60 seconds. Add one can of beans with liquid and mash with a potato masher or fork until thoroughly mushed. Drain the second can of beans and add to the mushed beans. Mix and mush to your desired consistency. Cook on low for 5 minutes. Serve topped with cotija cheese. Enjoy.

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