Fergie's Refried Beans 101

My friend Milly recently mentioned she wanted to learn how to make refried beans.  It is a question I get asked often.  I usually just make them without ever even thinking about measuring.  Last night I started the process and measured EVERYTHING!!!  So here my go my beautiful friend... Refried Beans 101 !!! 

4 Cups Pinto Beans, Sorted and Throughly Washed

8 Cups of Water for Soaking 

8 Cups of Water for Cooking 

1/2 Onion

2 Tablespoons Kosher Salt 

1/2 Cup of Cooking Oil 

3-4 Pickled Jalapenos 

1 Cup Monterey Jack Cheese

Cotija Cheese for Garnish (and taste) 

4 Cups of Pinto Beans... sort 2-3 times... there are rocks and dirt balls in there!!! 

Wash over and over until the water in perfectly clean... 

Add the 8 cups of beans and soak over night. 

In the morning the beans will have been absorbed.  Rinse the beans 1 more time .

Place the beans with another 8 cups of water, 1/2 onion and the 2 tablespoons of kosher salt... 

Cover and bring to a boil and then simmer on low for 1 1/2 - 2 hours until the beans are soft and tender... 

This is what your beans "should" look like ... 

I use Jalapenos en Escabeche... you can fine them pretty much anywhere!  

Measure the oil ... 

Cut the stems off the jalapenos... 

Add the oil and the jalapenos ... using a hand blender blend until smooth.  The oil will emulsify and make that amazing texture refried beans should have. 

We like them smooth... Some people like a bit more texture... Its up to you and your taste... 

Heat a large skillet and add the beans 1 ladle at a time... Careful it will bubble and it can burn you... 

Add the cheese... and keep mixing until the cheese is melted... 

All done!!! 

This makes a big batch... but don't worry!!! They freeze beautifully!!!