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Refried Black Beans (Better than Store-Bought)


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  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Creamy homemade refried black beans made with onion, garlic, warm spices, and black beans for a quick and flavorful side dish that’s better than store-bought.


Ingredients

  • 2 cans (15-ounce each) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil or extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup vegetable broth, chicken broth, or water
  • Lime wedges, for serving
  • Sliced jalapeños (optional)
  • Crumbled queso fresco (optional)
  • Shredded cheese (optional)
  • Diced tomatoes (optional)
  • Chopped cilantro (optional)
  • Diced raw onion (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened and lightly golden.
  3. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and cayenne pepper if using.
  4. Cook for about 30 seconds while stirring constantly.
  5. Add black beans and cook for 1–2 minutes until heated through.
  6. Pour in broth or water.
  7. Mash the beans with a potato masher or spoon until desired consistency is reached.
  8. Add extra broth if needed to keep the beans creamy.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  10. Serve warm with lime wedges and optional toppings.

Notes

  • Use vegetable broth to keep the recipe vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
  • Add extra broth while reheating to maintain creamy texture.
  • Blend the beans for an ultra-smooth consistency.
  • Fresh lime juice brightens the flavor.
  • Refried beans naturally thicken as they cool.
  • Great for tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and rice bowls.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 23g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg