FRIJOLES (MEXICAN STYLE PINTO BEANS)

Steps:

• Soak beans according to package directions; drain.
• Heat oil in stock pot or dutch oven over medium-high heat.
• Add salt pork; cook 2 minutes, until browned.
• Reduce heat to medium; add onions and chile and cook 4 minutes.
• Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
• Add drained beans, water and cumin seed.
• Bring to a boil; reduce heat to medium-low, cover and simmer 30 minutes.
• Add salt and continue to cook 25 to 35 minutes more, until tender.
• (Can be made ahead. Cool. Transfer to large microwaveproof container. Cover and refrigerate overnight. To reheat: Microwave on high 10 minutes, stirring once after 5 minutes, until heated through.) Makes 7 cups.
• Refries Beans (frijoles refritos):.
• Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil or lard in large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add 1/2 cup finely chopped onion and cook 2 to 3 minutes, until browned.
• Add 2 teaspoons finely chopped garlic and cook 30 seconds.
• Add 2 cups cooked beans and 1/3 to 1/2 cup bean liquid to skilet.
• (Or, microwave 2 cups refrigerated beans and 1/3 to 1/2 cup bean liquid on High, 2 to 3 minutes, until room temperature, and add to skillet).
• Mash beans and liquid coarsely with back of wooden spoon or potato masher.
• Cook 1 to 2 minutes more, untilheated through, addingmore bean liquid or water if needed.
• Transfer beans to a food processor.
• Process just until smooth.
• Makes 2 cups (4 servings).