Un Refried Beans

Discover the ultimate recipe for "Un Refried Beans," a lighter, healthier twist on a classic favorite that skips the frying while delivering all the flavor. This vegan and gluten-free dish begins with tender, slow-simmered dried pinto beans, infused with aromatic garlic, onion, and a hint of bay leaf. Ground cumin and a splash of zesty lime juice elevate the creamy texture, which you can customize to your liking—smooth or slightly chunky. Made without lard or heavy oils (with an optional drizzle of olive oil for richness), this versatile recipe is perfect as a side dish, taco filling, or dip. Garnished with fresh cilantro, these unrefried beans are a wholesome, protein-packed option that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare. Ready in just a few simple steps, they’re a must-try for anyone seeking a healthier take on comfort food staples!

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:120 mins

Total Time:130 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Dried pinto beans
• 4 cups Water
• 1 medium White onion
• 3 cloves Garlic cloves
• 1 leaf Bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Lime juice
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Start by rinsing the dried pinto beans thoroughly under cool water to remove any dirt or debris.

Step 2

In a large pot, combine the rinsed beans with 4 cups of water, the white onion (halved), garlic cloves (peeled), and bay leaf. Bring everything to a boil over high heat.

Step 3

Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed to keep the beans submerged.

Step 4

Once the beans are cooked, remove and discard the bay leaf and onion. If desired, reserve some of the cooking liquid for later use.

Step 5

Transfer the beans along with the garlic to a blender, food processor, or back into the pot if you prefer hand-mashing. Add the salt, ground cumin, lime juice, and olive oil (if using). Blend, mash, or pulse lightly until you reach your preferred consistency, adding reserved cooking liquid as needed for smoother beans.

Step 6

Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, adding more salt, cumin, or lime juice based on your preference.

Step 7

Serve warm as a side dish, taco filling, or dip. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, if desired, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1313.6 grams (1313.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	451

Total Fat 15.30g	20%
Saturated Fat 2.20g	11%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.40g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2817mg	122%
Total Carbohydrate 64.20g	23%
Dietary Fiber 18.80g	67%
Total Sugars 5.90g
Protein 18.60g	37%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 208mg	16%
Iron 6mg	33%
Potassium 1066mg	23%

*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: 29.4%

Protein: 15.9%

Carbs: 54.8%