Homemade Bacon Refried Beans

Here’s a simple recipe for homemade bacon refried beans:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried pinto beans (or 4 cups canned pinto beans)
• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups water or chicken broth (if using dried beans)
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and sour cream

Instructions:

Using Dried Beans:

1. Soak the Beans: Rinse the dried beans and soak them overnight in enough water to cover them by a few inches. Alternatively, you can use the quick soak method: place the beans in a pot, cover with water, bring to a boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and let soak for 1 hour. Drain and rinse.
2. Cook the Beans: Place the soaked beans in a large pot and cover with fresh water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Drain, reserving some of the cooking liquid.

Using Canned Beans:

1. Prepare the Beans: Drain and rinse the canned beans.

Making the Refried Beans:

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon pieces and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add Beans and Spices: Add the cooked (or canned) beans to the skillet. Stir in the cumin and chili powder. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Mash the Beans: Using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, mash the beans to your desired consistency. Add some of the reserved cooking liquid (or water/broth) a little at a time to reach your preferred thickness.
5. Season and Finish: Stir in the cooked bacon pieces. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are heated through and well combined.
6. Serve: Serve the refried beans hot, topped with optional toppings like shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and sour cream.

Enjoy your homemade bacon refried beans as a side dish, or use them in burritos, tacos, or as a dip for tortilla chips!