03/10/2026
Slow Cooker Refried Beans🍽
12 servings, about ½ cup each
1 lb. dry pinto beans (about 5 cups), rinsed, sorted
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 tsp. sea salt (or Himalayan salt), divided use
1 tsp. ground black pepper
1 sprig fresh espazote (or fresh oregano)
¼ tsp. crushed red pepper (optional)
6 cups of hot water, divided use
1 tsp. olive oil
1. Place beans, onion, garlic, ¾ tsp. salt, pepper, espazote, red pepper, and 4 cups water in a 3-quart slow cooker; cover. Cook on high for 6 to 8 hours, or until beans are soft. Add additional water, if necessary, so that beans do not become dry.
2. Remove and discard espazote sprig. Strain beans, reserving liquid.
3. Heat oil in large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add strained beans and ¼ cup of reserved liquid; cook, mashing with a potato masher, for 5 to 8 minutes, or until they form a rough purée. Add more water if necessary to keep the fried beans from getting too dried out.
5. Season with remaining ¼ tsp. salt; mix well.
Enjoy.
