Refried beans - Definition and Overview

Refried beans (frijoles refritos) are a Mexican dish of cooked pinto beans that are reheated in oil, traditionally lard but recently vegetable oil. Usually, onion, garlic and spices are sauteed in the oil before the beans are added. The recooked beans are then partially or completely mashed and bean stock is added if the consistency is too dry.

The re- in refrito doesn't mean "again", as in the beans being fried again and again, as is a common misconception. Instead, re- is a kind of intensifier, meaning the beans are fried strongly or very well.

External Links

• Ochef publication's article 'Making Refried Beans (http://www.ochef.com/279.htm)