Introduction
Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious vegan side dish? These Quick Vegan Refried Beans (Frijoles Refritos) are the perfect solution! Packed with protein, fiber, and rich flavor, this recipe is easy to make in under 20 minutes using simple ingredients. Whether you’re serving them with tacos, burritos, nachos, or as a dip, these refried beans will become a staple in your plant-based kitchen.
- In this article, you’ll learn:
- How to make authentic-tasting vegan refried beans
- The best beans to use for perfect texture
- Tips for enhancing flavor with spices
- Ways to customize your refried beans
- Serving suggestions & storage tips
Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Refried Beans Recipe
- Ready in 15-20 minutes – No long soaking or cooking required!
- Creamy & flavorful – Just like traditional refried beans but 100% plant-based.
- Budget-friendly – Uses pantry staples like canned beans and basic spices.
- Versatile – Perfect for tacos, burritos, dips, and more.
- Healthy & nutritious – High in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
Ingredients for Vegan Refried Beans
You only need a few simple ingredients to make this delicious dish:
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) pinto beans (or black beans) – drained & rinsed
- 1 small onion – finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves – minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable broth for oil-free)
- ½ cup vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (for depth of flavor)
- ½ tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt & black pepper – to taste
- 1 tbsp lime juice (or lemon juice) – for brightness
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (for smoky heat)
- ½ tsp oregano (Mexican oregano if available)
- 1-2 tbsp nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
- Fresh cilantro – for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Beans
- Add the drained pinto beans, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in vegetable broth and stir well.
- Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
Step 3: Mash the Beans
- Use a potato masher or the back of a fork to mash the beans to your desired consistency.
- For extra-creamy beans, blend half the mixture in a food processor before returning it to the skillet.
- Stir in lime juice and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Serve warm with tortillas, nachos, or as a side dish.
Tips for the Best Vegan Refried Beans
- Use canned beans for convenience, or cook dried beans from scratch for a richer taste.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of unsweetened plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk).
- Adjust spice levels – Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper for more heat.
- Make them oil-free by sautéing onions and garlic in vegetable broth instead of oil.
Serving Suggestions
These vegan refried beans are incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy them:
- Tacos & Burritos – Spread on tortillas before adding fillings.
- Burrito Bowls – Layer with rice, veggies, and guacamole.
- Nachos – Use as a base layer for loaded vegan nachos.
- Quesadillas – Mix with vegan cheese for a melty filling.
- Dip – Serve warm with tortilla chips or fresh veggies.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months (thaw before reheating).
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess.
Nutritional Benefits
This vegan refried beans recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:
- High in plant-based protein – Great for muscle repair & energy.
- Rich in fiber – Supports digestion & gut health.
- Low in fat – Heart-healthy compared to traditional lard-based refried beans.
- Packed with iron & folate – Essential for blood health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes! Soak 1 cup dried pinto beans overnight, then cook until tender before mashing.
2. How do I make refried beans less dry?
Add more vegetable broth or water until you reach the desired consistency.
3. Are refried beans gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free (just check your broth labels).
4. Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Sauté onions & garlic in the Instant Pot, then add beans and spices. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, then mash.
Final Thoughts
These Quick Vegan Refried Beans (Frijoles Refritos) are a must-try for anyone looking for a fast, flavorful, and healthy plant-based dish. Whether you’re meal-prepping or serving a crowd, this recipe is easy, customizable, and delicious!
Try it today and let us know how you enjoyed it in the comments below!
