Refried Beans

 Refried Beans

1 lb pinto beans (abt 2 cups)

1/2 onion

3 tsp garlic powder

3 tsp salt

5 TB oil

2 tsp liquid smoke

soak pinto beans over night or bring to boil and let stand for an hour. Soak them in plenty of water to allow the beans to expand. The water level should be at least double the surface of the beans.

Phase 1: Drain beans (option). The compound that makes beans gassy is water soluble and most of it will pour off with the bean soaking water. The downside is a lot of vitamins are also water soluble and will pour off too. I drain. 

Phase 2: Cover beans with hot water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add garlic and onion. Simmer gently for 2 hours with lid cocked, stirring occasionally. Add some hot water after 1 hour. 

Phase 3: Add 2 T oil and more H2O. Most of your smoke flavor comes later, but this will smell awesome. Simmer for another 2-4 hours. Stir occasionally. The beans will get really soft and absorb a lot of water. If they are not fully saturated and soft, the end product will not turn out.

Drain out the bean broth (save some for later). Add the remaining 3 T oil and use potato masher to blend well. Add salt - very slowly. Do the same with liquid smoke. Add some of the bean broth to thin.

Cool and store. Ok to freeze.