Are you tired of greasy, heavy traditional refried beans? Get ready to revolutionize your Mexican cuisine experience with this incredibly simple, healthier "Not Re-Fried Beans" recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort! In just 15 minutes, you'll create a creamy, delicious side dish that's packed with protein and bursting with authentic Mexican-inspired seasoning. Whether you're a busy home cook or a culinary enthusiast, this recipe will become your new go-to bean preparation method.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked black beans
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Drain the cooked black beans and set aside, reserving a small amount of the cooking liquid.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers and becomes fragrant.
- Add diced onions to the skillet and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Introduce minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add the cooked black beans to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Sprinkle cumin over the beans and stir to distribute the spice evenly.
- Using a potato masher or the back of a wooden spoon, gently mash some of the beans to create a creamy texture while leaving some beans whole for added texture.
- If the beans seem dry, add a small amount of reserved cooking liquid to maintain moisture.
- Season with salt to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are heated through and have a slightly creamy consistency.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately as a side dish or as a filling for tacos, burritos, or as a dip.
Tips
- Use freshly cooked or high-quality canned black beans for the best texture and flavor.
- Don't rush the onion and garlic sautéing process - allowing them to caramelize gently enhances the overall depth of flavor.
- For a creamier consistency, mash more beans; for a chunkier texture, mash fewer.
- Experiment with additional spices like smoked paprika or chili powder for extra complexity.
- Reserve some bean cooking liquid to help control moisture and prevent the beans from becoming too dry.
- Use a wooden spoon or potato masher for the best mashing technique, avoiding metal utensils that might break the beans too aggressively.
- Serve immediately for the optimal temperature and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 125kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg