Arnie's Refried Beans
Authentic and flavorful refried beans made in a slow cooker, perfect as a side or for tacos and tostadas.
4h 15m4Servings
Nutrition
327kcal
14gProtein
14gCarbs
26gFat
Ingredients
Pinto Beans
2½ cups
Water
6 cups
Bacon
0.5 lb
Garlic
2 cloves
Salt, Pepper & Garlic Seasoning
2 tsp
Lard
1 tbsp
Equipment
Slow Cooker
Instructions
1Prepare the Beans
5m
5mRinse Beans
Rinse the 2.5 cups of pinto beans in a colander. Do not soak them overnight; they cook better without soaking.
Add to Slow Cooker
Add the rinsed beans to the slow cooker. Pour in 6 cups of water.
2Add Flavor Base
10m
10mPrepare Bacon
Cut 0.5 lb of thick-cut bacon into small pieces. Add the bacon to the slow cooker.
Add Garlic
Peel and add 2 cloves of garlic to the slow cooker.
Season
Add 2 tsp of salt, pepper & garlic seasoning to the slow cooker.
3Slow Cook
4h
4hCook on High
Cover the slow cooker and set it to high. Cook for 4 to 5 hours, or until the beans are tender but not mushy. Stir every hour or so.
4Finish the Beans
20m
20mMash Beans
Once cooked, transfer the beans and some of their liquid to a skillet. Mash them with a potato masher. Add about 1 tbsp of lard or butter to help them cook and add flavor. Stir and mash until they reach your desired consistency.
Cook Until Dry
Cook the mashed beans over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until they start to dry out and get a slightly crispy texture. Scrape the bottom of the pan to incorporate any browned bits.
Rest and Serve
Turn off the heat and let the beans rest for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the broth to thicken. Serve hot.
Tips
For extra flavor, you can fry the bacon separately until crisp before adding it to the slow cooker.
If you don't have lard, butter can be used, but lard provides a more traditional flavor.
Don't overcook the beans in the slow cooker; they should be tender but still hold their shape before mashing.
The final frying stage in the skillet is crucial for developing the characteristic texture and flavor of refried beans.