Ingredients:
2 cups dried pinto beans (rinsed and soaked overnight or quick-soaked)
8 cups water
1/2 white onion (peeled, whole)
2 cloves garlic (smashed)
1 tsp salt (more to taste)
Optional: jalapeño, fresh cilantro, or cooked bacon/ham hock for flavor
Optional for refried beans: lard or oil, chopped onion, cheese
For The Homemade Flour Tortillas:
Ingredients:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp baking powder
1/3 cup lard or shortening
1 cup warm water
Instructions:
Cook the Beans:
Place soaked beans, water, onion, garlic, and any optional flavor boosters in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer gently for 2–3 hours or until beans are soft.
Salt to Finish:
Add salt in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
(Optional) Mash & Fry:
For refried beans, mash with a potato masher and fry in lard/oil with chopped onion until creamy. Add shredded cheese if desired.
For the Homemade Flour Tortillas:
Make Dough:
Mix flour, salt, and baking powder. Add lard and mix until crumbly. Slowly add warm water until a soft dough forms.
Rest:
Divide into 12 balls and let rest 20 minutes.
Roll & Cook:
Roll each ball into a thin circle. Cook on a hot dry skillet 30 seconds per side or until it bubbles and browns.
📝 Pro Tip:
Serve beans with warm tortillas, a sprinkle of cheese, and maybe a splash of salsa for the ultimate comfort food.