Are you ready to elevate your meal game with a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor? Look no further than these homemade Refried Beans, made effortlessly in your slow cooker! With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a savory side dish that will have your taste buds dancing and your guests begging for the recipe. Perfect for burritos, nachos, or as a hearty accompaniment to any Mexican feast, these refried beans are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure that promises to be a game-changer for your dinner table!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried pinto beans
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the dried pinto beans under cold water. Remove any debris or damaged beans. This step ensures that your beans are clean and ready for cooking.
- In a large bowl, soak the rinsed beans in enough water to cover them by at least two inches. Let them soak for at least 6 hours or overnight. This will help to soften the beans and reduce cooking time.
- After soaking, drain the beans and set them aside. This step is crucial as it removes excess sodium and helps to achieve the desired texture.
- In a slow cooker, add the soaked and drained beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, and cumin. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, making sure the beans are fully submerged. If necessary, add more broth or water to cover the beans by an inch.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture. The oil adds richness and helps enhance the flavors of the beans.
- Season with salt to taste. Start with about 1 teaspoon, but remember you can adjust it later based on your preference.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Allow the beans to cook for approximately 6 hours. Check for doneness; the beans should be tender and easily mashed with a fork.
- Once the beans are cooked, use a potato masher or fork to mash them to your desired consistency. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender.
- If the refried beans seem too thick, you can add a little more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste the beans and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or cumin if necessary. Stir well to combine.
- Serve the refried beans warm as a side dish, in burritos, or as a topping for nachos. Enjoy your homemade refried beans!
Tips
- Soak Your Beans: Don’t skip the soaking step! Soaking the pinto beans for at least 6 hours or overnight not only shortens the cooking time but also ensures a creamier texture in your final dish.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding spices like smoked paprika or chili powder along with the cumin. This will give your refried beans a delightful kick!
- Adjusting Consistency: If your beans turn out too thick after mashing, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, you can always add more liquid, but you can’t take it away!
- Taste Test: Always taste your beans before serving. Adjust the salt and cumin to your liking, as everyone's palate is different. A little extra seasoning can make a big difference!
- Versatile Serving: These refried beans are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a side dish, use them as a filling for burritos, or layer them on nachos for a delicious snack. The possibilities are endless!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 230kcal
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 14g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
