(Easy!) Refried Beans Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 15.5 oz cans pinto beans (rinsed and drained)
• 3 Tablespoons salted butter (divided)
• 1 cup finely chopped onion ((about 1 medium onion))
• 1 Tablespoon minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano ((Mexican oregano preferred))
• ½ teaspoon table salt
• ¼ cup chicken or vegetable broth (plus additional if/as needed)
• ½ Tablespoon fresh lime juice ((juice from half a lime))
• Queso fresco or cotija cheese for topping (optional)

Steps

1. 1

   Heat 2 Tablespoons of butter in a medium-sized saucepan over medium-heat until melted.

2. 2

   Add onion, cook, stirring occasionally, until softened (about 5 minutes).

3. 3

   Add garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant (about 30-60 seconds).

4. 4

   Add cumin, oregano, and salt and stir well.

5. 5

   Add beans and broth and stir until ingredients are well combined. Bring to a simmer over medium/low heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. 6

   Using a potato masher or fork, mash the refried beans until desired consistency is reached. If needed/if the beans seem dry, add additional broth, a splash at a time.

7. 7

   Add remaining Tablespoon of butter and the lime juice and stir well. Taste-test and add more salt or lime if needed.

8. 8

   Serve immediately, topped with cotija cheese or queso fresco, if desired.