Vegetarian Refried Beans

Creamy, flavorful, and packed with plant-based protein, these Vegetarian Refried Beans are the perfect addition to your next Mexican-inspired meal! Made from dried pinto beans simmered to tender perfection with aromatic spices like cumin and chili powder, this recipe skips the lard for a healthier twist. A splash of zesty lime juice and optional fresh cilantro elevate the dish with a refreshing finish. Whether served as a side dish, a taco filling, or a dip, these homemade refried beans are rich, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. With simple pantry staples and a slow-simmering cooking technique, this recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a wholesome, vegetarian take on a classic favorite.

Nutriscore Rating: 82/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:135 mins

Total Time:145 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups Dried pinto beans
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon Chili powder
• 3 cups Vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Lime juice
• 0.25 cup Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the dried pinto beans under cold running water and remove any debris.

Step 2

Place the beans in a large bowl and cover them with water, allowing them to soak overnight. Alternatively, for a quicker method, bring the beans to a boil in a large pot, remove them from heat, cover, and let them sit for 1 hour.

Step 3

Drain and rinse the soaked beans again. Set aside.

Step 4

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 5

Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 6

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes, ensuring the garlic does not burn.

Step 7

Add the cumin powder and chili powder, stirring them into the onion and garlic mixture to release their flavors.

Step 8

Add the drained beans to the pot along with the vegetable broth.

Step 9

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 2 hours or until the beans are tender.

Step 10

Check the beans periodically and add more broth or water if necessary to keep them submerged.

Step 11

Once the beans are tender, remove the pot from heat.

Step 12

Using a potato masher or an immersion blender, mash the beans until they reach your desired consistency.

Step 13

Stir in the salt, black pepper, and lime juice, adjusting the seasoning to taste.

Step 14

Optionally, garnish the refried beans with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.

Step 15

Serve warm as a side dish or as a filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1317.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1133.0

Total Fat 37.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 6.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.6g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4942.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 160.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 46.2g	0%
Total Sugars 17.6g
Protein 48.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 363.4mg	0%
Iron 14.8mg	0%
Potassium 3244.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 28.9%

Protein: 16.5%

Carbs: 54.6%