Refried Red Beans

These fresh (not canned) refried red beans work flavorful magic wherever you dollop them. Skillet-sautéed with onion, tomatillo and jalapeño, they’ll give a mild kick—and healthy protein—to tacos, wraps, salads, and more. Dig in, or heat beans in a skillet or microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, or until desired temperature is reached and beans are slightly crispy. Pair with tortilla chips and cheese to make nachos, or use as a filling for a quick, clean-ingredient burrito.

• 1 lb. bag pinto beans
• 1 tea. salt
• 1 tea. chili powder
• 1/2 tea. ground cumin
• 1/2 tea. garlic powder
• 1/2 tea. onion powder
• 1/2 tea. dried cilantro
• Louisiana Hot sauce, to taste
• juice of half a lime
• 4 quart freezer bags

Preparation

1. On The Morning the Day Before You Want To Freeze Them*: Rinse, drain and sort through a bag of pinto beans. Sometimes you'll find rocks and other debris which needs to be removed so you don't break your teeth. Soak them in the morning in a large bowl.
   

2. The Evening the Day Before You Want To Freeze Them*: Drain the water from the day's soaking. Add the pinto beans to a large slow cooker. Pour in enough water to cover the beans with about 2" of water over the top of the beans. Cook on low overnight.

3. The Next Day, The Day You Want to Freeze Them*: Turn off the slow cooker. The water will look dirty and the beans should be mushy. Pour off the water and return beans back to the slow cooker crock. Add the seasonings. Mash the beans using a potato masher. You can choose to mash them all or you can leave some beans whole. It's whatever you like. Squeeze the juice lime. Stir well. 

4. Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts and ladle up the beans into labeled freezer baggies. Remove the excess air from the bag, seal, and freeze.

*Note: This recipe does take some advance planning. You will need to begin the day before you make it into a freezer meal component, beginning in the morning.

Cooking Instructions

1. You can thaw in the fridge overnight or thaw in microwave.

2. Heat in the microwave for a minute or so until warm and soft enough to use.