THE BEST REFRIED BEANS EVER

The Best Refried Beans Ever image

Provided by @MakeItYours

Number Of Ingredients 8

2 slices bacon
1/2 onion (diced)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or less, if you prefer mild spice)
15 oz. canned pinto beans (drained and rinsed (about 1.5 cups cooked beans))
1/2 cup chicken stock/broth (or veggie stock, or water)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
salt and pepper (to taste)

Steps:

In a heavy skillet (I used a cast iron one), fry the 2 slices bacon until crispy on medium high heat. Remove the bacon and set aside. Chop into small pieces when cooled.
Meanwhile, add to the bacon grease the onion; sauté until soft and slightly browned (about 2 minutes).
Add the chili powder (1 teaspoon) and cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon); stir to coat the onions.
Add the drained and rinsed pinto beans and chicken stock (1/2 cup). Use a potato masher (or a fork) to mash the beans to desired texture, then stir to incorporate with the liquid.
Continue heating until heated through. If there is too much liquid, continue heating until some of the liquid has evaporated, until you reach the desired consistency, stirring frequently, keeping in mind the beans will thicken as they cool.
Stir in cilantro (1/4 cup), chopped bacon, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.