Refried Beans
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight in a large bowl with water to cover by 2-inches, and drained
- 4 bay leaves
- 1/2 cup bacon drippings or lard
- 2 cups chopped yellow onions
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons minced, seeded jalapeno
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Pinch cayenne
- 1/2 teaspoon chopped oregano
- 1/2 cup grated queso blanco
- 1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro, garnish
Directions
In a medium, heavy pot, combine the beans, bay leaves, and enough water to cover by 1 to 2 inches. Bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the beans are very tender, 1 1/2 to 2 hours, adding more water as necessary to keep the beans covered with liquid. When the beans are soft, mash in the pot with a potato masher or the back of heavy wooden spoon. Remove from the heat.
In a large, heavy skillet, heat the bacon fat over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring, until soft, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic, jalapeno, chili powder, cumin, salt, and cayenne, and cook, stirring, until fragrant, 45 seconds to 1 minute. Add the beans and any cooking liquid from the pot, and the oregano, and stir to combine. Cook, stirring with a heavy wooden spoon, until the mixture forms a thick paste, 5 to 10 minutes, adding water 2 tablespoons at a time to keep from getting dry.
Remove from the heat and transfer to a decorative bowl. Sprinkle with the cheese and cilantro, and serve.
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