Have you ever noticed that refried beans at a Mexican restaurant are sooo much better than refried beans out of a can? And I love refried beans out of a can so that’s a pretty big compliment for restaurant-style beans. One day, I decided that I wanted a change from my beloved can refried beans. So, I threw some beans in a pan and started mashing. A scene of me with beans up to my elbows still mashing three hours later flashed through my mind. And, honestly, if I wanted to make true restaurant-style refried beans it would take a couple of hours. But, I soon discovered that it doesn’t have to take that long. All you need is 15 minutes and you’re good to go. Sure, if I let the beans simmer for hours they would be that much better, but who has that time on a weeknight? These do the trick when you’re strapped for time. Best part is, you only need five ingredients (other than salt).

INGREDIENTS:

1 can black beans

1 can kidney beans

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 tsp chili powder

1 tablespoon olive oil or bacon grease

Salt to taste

DIRECTIONS:

Heat one tablespoon olive oil or bacon grease in a medium-sized saute pan over medium heat. Obviously olive oil is healthier and probably already in your pantry but bacon grease gives it that little something extra.

Add minced garlic and sauté  for 30 seconds or until fragrant.

Add beans and 1/2 cup water. Bring to a boil. Add chili powder and salt to taste then boil for one minute.

Turn heat down to low and simmer. After 10 minutes, starting mashing the beans with the back of a wooden spoon. Mash and cook for five more minutes until they reach desired consistency.