Refried beans is a popular dish in Mexican cuisine, consisting of cooked and mashed beans that are fried in oil or lard. The spelling of this phrase can be confusing as it is not actually "re-fried" as the name suggests. Instead, the word is derived from the Spanish term "frijoles refritos" which means "well-fried beans". The correct pronunciation is [ˌriːˈfraɪd biːnz], with the stress on the first syllable of "refried" and the "i" sound in "beans" pronounced as [iː].
Refried beans are a popular and traditional Mexican dish consisting of cooked and mashed beans that have been fried in oil or lard. Despite its name, "refried" does not actually mean the beans are fried twice, but rather it is a mistranslation of the Spanish term "refrito," which means "well-fried" or "fried once."
Typically, pinto beans are used to prepare refried beans, but other types like black beans may also be used. The process of making refried beans involves first cooking the beans until tender, then frying them in hot fat along with other ingredients such as onions, garlic, chili peppers, or spices. The mixture is mashed or blended while being cooked, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture.
Refried beans are known for their rich flavor and versatility. They can be enjoyed as a side dish, used as a filling for burritos, tacos, or enchiladas, or even served as a dip with tortilla chips. The frying process gives the beans a slightly smoky taste while also adding a depth of flavor and richness.
In addition to their culinary value, refried beans are also a good source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Their high fiber content can contribute to improved digestion and overall gut health. Due to their popularity, refried beans are widely available pre-made in cans or can be prepared from scratch at home using freshly cooked beans and desired seasonings.
The word "refried" in "refried beans" is a misnomer, as the beans are not actually fried twice. The term originated from the Spanish dish "frijoles refritos". In Spanish, "frijoles" means "beans", and "refritos" is a form of the verb "refreír", which means "to fry again". The term was likely mistranslated into English. In reality, refried beans are prepared by cooking pinto beans and then mashing and frying them, often with onions, garlic, or other seasonings, giving them their distinctive flavor and texture.