“Refried Beans”

One of my favorite things to order at a Mexican restaurant is refried beans, particularly of the black variety. However, I KNOW that these are not in any way healthy for me. I found this food article in the NY Times which showed a new technique for “refried beans.”

All you have to do is soak a few cups of black beans (preferably overnight). Then cut up 1 onion (depending on how many beans you use) and saute over medium heat. Add about 4 cloves of garlic, minced and saute for 30 seconds. Add the beans and fill the pot with water (about one inch above the beans). Bring to a boil then down to a simmer. Simmer for 1 hour. Then drain the beans and onion mixture and mash in a bowl. Set a little oil over medium heat and add the beans along with a sprinkling of cumin and chili powder. Continuously mash and flip the beans when the underside becomes crusty. Do this for several minutes, then the beans are ready! These beans are a great alternative to my typical bean meal that I make a LOT.

Serve with your favorite rice, in a burrito, or on top of a salad like I did below. This is my “healthified” Mexican salad. I served it with light cheddar, tomatoes, red bell pepper, corn, avocado, a few shredded Food Should Taste Good chips, and yogurt ranch dressing.