Did you know
How refried beans get their tasty flavour
Beans (frijoles) of all kinds are the staple food of Mexico (and indeed the whole of South America).
Despite being considered by some as the poor man's meat, these protein-rich legumes that we eat today have long played a vital role in the Mexican diet.
What Refried beans (Frijoles Refritos) lack in attractive appearance, they certainly make up on flavour. Because the rich intense flavour they deliver tastes so good, they easily became favoured as the perfect accompaniment to all things Mexican.
Many people have misunderstood the term "refried beans" to simply mean 'refry again and again'. But "frijoles refritos" actually means "well-fried beans", where it implies that you 'do it really well or do it a lot'.
In Mexico, a simmering olla (clay pot) of beans (traditionally black pinto or pink beans) along with a blend of herbs and spices such as garlic, cumin, oregano and salt is a constant sight in most kitchens.
To serve, the beans are then heated in a large frying pan using lard - with a meaty flavour (traditionally, they used pork lard) to achieve the most flavour.
Our Discovery Refried Beans are made with pinto beans and have been blended with cumin and onion to provide the perfect accompaniment for filling tacos, topping nachos or to be simply used as a dip.
So, cast away any preconceptions of the 'much maligned refried bean' and serve this simple but tasty ingredient as an accompaniment to any Mexican meal or follow some of our recipes to make soups, starters and so much more...
Sopa de Frijoles Refritos
There is nothing as warming or satisfying as a bowl of thick, hearty and flavoursome bean soup
Spicy Refried Bean & Sweetcorn Cakes
Simply, combine refried beans with sweetcorn, fresh coriander, red jalapenos and a sprinkling of Fajita seasoning, shape into patties and lighty fry for a quick and tasty starter or light snack.
Huevos Rancheros
Forget bacon & eggs. Huevos Rancheros is the classic Mexican breakfast or brunch. Crispy Corn Tortillas or Tortilla Chips soaking up rich creamy egg yolk, the zing of salsa and the warmth of refried beans combine in a marriage made in heaven.
