Rice & Beans

Frijoles Refritos

Name: Frijoles Refritos
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 90 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) dried pinto beans; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 sprigs fresh epazote; 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp lime juice; 2 cups water; 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

By Opal Ingram · June 19, 2026 · Rice & Beans

Prep30 min

Cook60 min

Total90 min

Serves6

I still remember the smell of my abuela's kitchen, filled with the aroma of simmering beans, fresh tortillas, and the sound of sizzling onions and garlic. It was a sensory experience that transported me to a place of comfort and warmth. One of my favorite dishes she used to make was Frijoles Refritos, a classic Mexican recipe that is both simple and rich in flavor.

As a child, I would watch her patiently sort through the beans, removing any debris or stones, and then simmering them in water until they were tender. She would then mash them with a fork, adding a touch of lard or vegetable oil to give them a creamy texture. The result was a dish that was both humble and satisfying, perfect for accompanying a warm tortilla, a sprinkle of queso fresco, and a dollop of sour cream.

Over the years, I've experimented with different variations of Frijoles Refritos, but I always come back to my abuela's traditional recipe. There's something special about the way the beans absorb the flavors of the onion, garlic, and epazote, creating a depth of flavor that is hard to replicate with modern shortcuts.

In this recipe, I'll guide you through the process of making authentic Frijoles Refritos, just like my abuela used to make. It's a recipe that requires patience, but the end result is well worth the effort. So, let's get started and create a dish that will transport you to the heart of Mexico.

Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of Mexican flavor to their meals. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a side, used as a filling for tacos or tostadas, or even as a dip for chips. So, go ahead and give it a try, and let the flavors of Mexico transport you to a place of comfort and joy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Frijoles Refritos is a versatile dish that can be served as a side, used as a filling for tacos or tostadas, or even as a dip for chips.
The recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions.
Frijoles Refritos is a comforting, flavorful dish that is perfect for any time of year, whether you're looking for a warm, cozy meal or a light, refreshing side dish.
The dish is budget-friendly and can be made with ingredients that are readily available at most grocery stores.
Frijoles Refritos is a great way to get your daily dose of fiber, protein, and complex carbohydrates, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option.
The recipe can be easily customized to suit your tastes, whether you like it spicy, mild, or somewhere in between.
Frijoles Refritos is a dish that is steeped in tradition and culture, making it a great way to connect with your heritage or explore new cuisines.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great Frijoles Refritos is to start with high-quality ingredients, including dried beans, fresh onion, garlic, and epazote. The beans are the foundation of the dish, and using dried beans allows you to control the texture and flavor. The onion and garlic add a depth of flavor that is essential to the dish, while the epazote provides a unique, slightly bitter flavor that balances out the sweetness of the beans.

Another important factor is the cooking technique. Simmering the beans in water until they are tender helps to break down the starches and create a creamy texture. Then, mashing the beans with a fork and adding a touch of lard or vegetable oil helps to create a smooth, velvety texture that is characteristic of Frijoles Refritos.

The final step is to season the beans with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime juice. This helps to brighten the flavors and add a touch of acidity to the dish. The result is a flavorful, comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion.

By following these simple steps and using high-quality ingredients, you can create a dish that is both authentic and delicious. So, let's get started and make some Frijoles Refritos that will transport you to the heart of Mexico.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Frijoles Refritos, you'll need a few simple ingredients, including dried beans, fresh onion, garlic, and epazote. You'll also need some lard or vegetable oil, salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime juice. The key is to use high-quality ingredients and to cook the beans slowly and patiently, allowing them to absorb all the flavors.

When shopping for ingredients, look for dried beans that are fresh and have not been sitting on the shelf for too long. You can also use canned beans, but they won't have the same texture and flavor as dried beans. For the onion and garlic, choose fresh, firm bulbs that are free of blemishes. Epazote can be found in most Mexican or Latin American markets, or you can substitute it with a combination of oregano and cumin.

1 lb (450g) dried pinto beansDried pinto beans are the traditional choice for Frijoles Refritos, but you can also use other types of beans, such as black beans or kidney beans. Look for beans that are fresh and have not been sitting on the shelf for too long.
1 large onion, choppedThe onion adds a depth of flavor to the dish, so choose a fresh, firm bulb that is free of blemishes. You can also use a combination of onion and garlic for added flavor.
3 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic is a fundamental ingredient in Mexican cuisine, and it adds a pungent flavor to Frijoles Refritos. Choose fresh, firm cloves that are free of blemishes.
2 sprigs fresh epazoteEpazote is a traditional herb in Mexican cuisine, and it adds a unique, slightly bitter flavor to Frijoles Refritos. You can find it in most Mexican or Latin American markets, or you can substitute it with a combination of oregano and cumin.
1/4 cup lard or vegetable oilLard or vegetable oil is used to add moisture and flavor to the beans. Choose a high-quality oil that is fresh and has a mild flavor.
1 tsp saltSalt is used to season the beans and bring out their natural flavor. Use a high-quality salt that is fresh and has a mild flavor.
1/2 tsp black pepperBlack pepper is used to add a touch of heat and flavor to the dish. Choose a high-quality pepper that is fresh and has a mild flavor.
2 tbsp lime juiceLime juice is used to add a touch of acidity and brightness to the dish. Choose a fresh, high-quality lime that is free of blemishes.
2 cups waterWater is used to cook the beans and create a creamy texture. Choose a high-quality water that is fresh and has a mild flavor.
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantroCilantro is used as a garnish and adds a fresh, herbal flavor to the dish. Choose a high-quality cilantro that is fresh and has a mild flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy pot with a tight-fitting lidColander or strainerWooden spoon or spatulaMasher or forkInstant-read thermometerCutting boardChef's knife

How to Make Frijoles Refritos

1
Rinse the dried beans and remove any debris or stones. Place the beans in a large pot and add enough water to cover them by at least 2 inches. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the beans until they are tender, about 1-2 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
2
While the beans are cooking, heat the lard or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it is translucent and starting to caramelize, about 8-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3
Add the cooked onion and garlic to the pot with the beans and stir to combine. Add the sprigs of epazote and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the flavors have melded together.
4
Use a masher or fork to mash the beans and create a creamy texture. Season the beans with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime juice. Stir to combine and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5
Continue to simmer the beans over low heat, stirring occasionally, until they have reached the desired consistency, about 10-15 minutes. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the beans, which should be at least 160°F.
6
Remove the pot from the heat and let the beans cool slightly. Use a spoon or spatula to scoop the beans into a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve hot.
7
To reheat the beans, place them in a pot over low heat and stir occasionally until they are warm and creamy, about 10-15 minutes. You can also reheat the beans in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until they are warm and creamy.
8
To make the beans ahead of time, cook them according to the recipe and then let them cool completely. Store the cooled beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat the beans as needed.
9
To add extra flavor to the beans, try adding a diced jalapeno or serrano pepper to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking. You can also add a sprinkle of grated cheese, such as queso fresco or Monterey Jack, to the top of the beans before serving.
10
To make the beans more substantial, try adding some cooked ground beef or shredded chicken to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking. You can also add some diced bell peppers or chopped tomatoes to the pot for added flavor and nutrients.
11
To serve the beans, try pairing them with a warm tortilla, a sprinkle of queso fresco, and a dollop of sour cream. You can also serve the beans as a side dish, accompanied by a simple green salad or a slice of warm bread.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality ingredients, including fresh onion, garlic, and epazote, to add depth and flavor to the dish.
Cook the beans slowly and patiently, allowing them to absorb all the flavors and create a creamy texture.
Don't over-season the beans, as this can make them taste salty and bitter. Instead, season them lightly and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Use a masher or fork to mash the beans and create a creamy texture. This will help to break down the starches and create a smooth, velvety texture.
Add a squeeze of lime juice to the beans to add a touch of acidity and brightness to the dish.
Try adding some diced jalapeno or serrano pepper to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking to add extra flavor and heat to the dish.
Experiment with different types of beans, such as black beans or kidney beans, to create a unique and delicious variation of the dish.
Serve the beans with a variety of toppings, such as diced onion, shredded cheese, and sour cream, to create a personalized and delicious meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not cooking the beans slowly and patiently, which can result in a hard, unappetizing texture.
Over-seasoning the beans, which can make them taste salty and bitter.
Not using high-quality ingredients, which can result in a lack of flavor and texture in the dish.
Not mashing the beans to create a creamy texture, which can result in a dish that is too thick and chunky.
Not adding a squeeze of lime juice to the beans, which can result in a dish that is too rich and heavy.
Not experimenting with different types of beans and toppings, which can result in a dish that is too boring and predictable.

Variations and Substitutions

Try adding some diced ham or bacon to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking to add a smoky, savory flavor to the dish.
Experiment with different types of beans, such as black beans or kidney beans, to create a unique and delicious variation of the dish.
Add some diced bell peppers or chopped tomatoes to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking to add extra flavor and nutrients to the dish.
Try adding some grated cheese, such as queso fresco or Monterey Jack, to the top of the beans before serving to add a creamy, tangy flavor to the dish.
Experiment with different types of oil, such as olive oil or avocado oil, to add a unique and delicious flavor to the dish.
Try adding some chopped fresh cilantro or scallions to the top of the beans before serving to add a fresh, herbal flavor to the dish.
Experiment with different types of acidity, such as lemon juice or vinegar, to add a bright, tangy flavor to the dish.

What to Serve With Frijoles Refritos

Frijoles Refritos is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Try pairing it with a warm tortilla, a sprinkle of queso fresco, and a dollop of sour cream for a delicious and satisfying meal. You can also serve it as a side dish, accompanied by a simple green salad or a slice of warm bread.

The beans are also a great filling for tacos or tostadas, and can be topped with a variety of ingredients, such as diced onion, shredded cheese, and sour cream. You can also use the beans as a dip for chips, or as a topping for grilled meats or vegetables.

Serve Frijoles Refritos with a warm tortilla, a sprinkle of queso fresco, and a dollop of sour cream.Use Frijoles Refritos as a filling for tacos or tostadas, and top with diced onion, shredded cheese, and sour cream.Serve Frijoles Refritos as a side dish, accompanied by a simple green salad or a slice of warm bread.Use Frijoles Refritos as a dip for chips, or as a topping for grilled meats or vegetables.

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

To store Frijoles Refritos, let the beans cool completely and then transfer them to an airtight container. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

To reheat the beans, place them in a pot over low heat and stir occasionally until they are warm and creamy, about 10-15 minutes. You can also reheat the beans in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until they are warm and creamy.

When freezing the beans, make sure to label the container with the date and the contents, and to store it in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below. When reheating the beans, make sure to stir them occasionally to prevent scorching and to add a touch of water or broth if the beans become too thick.

To prevent the beans from drying out, make sure to store them in an airtight container and to reheat them gently, stirring occasionally. You can also add a touch of water or broth to the beans if they become too thick, and can adjust the seasoning as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of beans should I use for Frijoles Refritos?

Dried pinto beans are the traditional choice for Frijoles Refritos, but you can also use other types of beans, such as black beans or kidney beans. Look for beans that are fresh and have not been sitting on the shelf for too long.

How do I cook the beans to create a creamy texture?

To cook the beans and create a creamy texture, simmer them in water until they are tender, then mash them with a fork or masher to break down the starches. You can also add a touch of lard or vegetable oil to the beans to add moisture and flavor.

What is epazote and where can I find it?

Epazote is a traditional herb in Mexican cuisine, and it adds a unique, slightly bitter flavor to Frijoles Refritos. You can find epazote in most Mexican or Latin American markets, or you can substitute it with a combination of oregano and cumin.

Can I make Frijoles Refritos ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Frijoles Refritos ahead of time. Cook the beans according to the recipe, then let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat the beans as needed.

How do I reheat Frijoles Refritos without drying them out?

To reheat Frijoles Refritos without drying them out, place them in a pot over low heat and stir occasionally until they are warm and creamy, about 10-15 minutes. You can also reheat the beans in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until they are warm and creamy. Add a touch of water or broth if the beans become too thick, and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Yes, you can use canned beans instead of dried beans, but they won't have the same texture and flavor as dried beans. Canned beans are already cooked and can be used as a substitute in a pinch, but they may be too soft and mushy for Frijoles Refritos.

How do I add extra flavor to Frijoles Refritos?

To add extra flavor to Frijoles Refritos, try adding some diced jalapeno or serrano pepper to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking. You can also add some grated cheese, such as queso fresco or Monterey Jack, to the top of the beans before serving. Experiment with different types of oil, such as olive oil or avocado oil, and add some chopped fresh cilantro or scallions to the top of the beans before serving.

Can I serve Frijoles Refritos as a main dish?

Yes, you can serve Frijoles Refritos as a main dish, accompanied by a variety of toppings, such as diced onion, shredded cheese, and sour cream. You can also serve it with a side of warm tortillas, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables.

The Full Recipe

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