Frijoles Refritos

Name: Frijoles Refritos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: Frijoles Refritos

Platos principales • Mexico

150

KCAL

PROTEIN (G)

CARBS (G)

FAT (G)

Data source: MexicanCalorie

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About Frijoles Refritos

Mashed fried pinto or black beans with lard

How to Make Frijoles Refritos (Traditional & Healthy Version)

Prep: 15 min

Cook: 20 min

2 servings

Easy

Frijoles Refritos, or refried beans, are a beloved staple of Mexican cuisine, cherished for their rich flavor and comforting texture. Originating from the heart of Mexico, this dish is traditionally made by mashing cooked beans and sautéing them with aromatic ingredients like onion and garlic. Frijoles Refritos are commonly served as a flavorful side or filling for tacos, burritos, or tostadas. Their mild, earthy taste and creamy consistency make them a favorite across all ages, especially during family gatherings and festive occasions. Culturally, Frijoles Refritos are more than just a dish—they are a symbol of Mexican hospitality and home cooking. Whether enjoyed at a bustling mercado or in a quiet village kitchen, these beans offer a taste of tradition and comfort. The recipe below presents a health-conscious approach, reducing oil and using wholesome ingredients while preserving the authentic flavors that make this dish iconic. Perfect for lunch, Frijoles Refritos are nourishing, satisfying, and easy to adapt for various dietary needs, making them ideal for an international audience seeking genuine Mexican food experiences.

Diabetic-Friendly Weight Loss Kid-Friendly Vegan Adaptable

Ingredients(for 1 cup (approximately 200g) per serving)

2 cups Cooked pinto beans (frijol pinto cocido)
1 tablespoon Olive oil (can substitute with avocado oil)
1/2 medium, finely chopped White onion (cebolla blanca)
2, minced Garlic cloves (ajo)
1/4 cup Low-sodium vegetable broth (caldo de verduras)
1/2 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon Black pepper (pimienta negra)
1/4 teaspoon Ground cumin (comino molido) - optional
2 tablespoons, chopped Fresh cilantro (cilantro fresco) - optional
for serving Lime wedges (optional garnish) - optional

Instructions

1
Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes.
4 minutes
Stir frequently to prevent onions from browning too quickly.
2
Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
1 minute
Lower heat if garlic starts to brown to avoid bitterness.
3
Stir in the cooked pinto beans and mash them using a potato masher or the back of a spoon.
3 minutes
For a creamier texture, mash thoroughly; for chunkier beans, leave some whole.
4
Pour in the vegetable broth gradually, stirring constantly, until the beans reach your desired consistency.
2 minutes
Add more broth for looser beans or less for a thicker spread.

Why This Dish is Healthy

This healthy version of Frijoles Refritos uses minimal oil and skips lard, significantly lowering saturated fat content while preserving authentic taste. By using low-sodium vegetable broth and fresh herbs, sodium is kept in check, making it suitable for those managing blood pressure. The high fiber and protein content help with satiety and weight management, aligning perfectly with calorie-conscious diets.

Frijoles Refritos are an excellent source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, which support digestive health and sustained energy. Pinto beans provide complex carbohydrates, B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and potassium, contributing to heart health and muscle function. Olive oil and fresh vegetables add healthy fats and antioxidants, making this dish nutrient-dense and satisfying without excess calories.

Pro Tips

💡Tip 1: For extra creaminess, blend half the beans before adding to the skillet.
💡Tip 2: Use freshly cooked beans for the best flavor, but canned low-sodium beans also work.
💡Tip 3: Adjust the consistency to your liking—thicker for filling, creamier as a side.

Storage & Serving

Store cooled Frijoles Refritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess. Suitable for freezing up to 2 months.

Best served: Breakfast or Lunch