Refried Black Beans

Rinse black beans in a strainer. Place the beans in a large pot and cover with 2 1/2 to 3 inches of water. Bring the beans to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and let simmer for 2 to 3 hours, until tender.

When the beans are ready, remove them from the pan and strain them.

Meanwhile, in a pot large enough to accommodate the beans, saute onion and garlic in oil until the onions become translucent. When the onions and garlic are done, stir in the beans to the mixture along with the water. Using an emulsion blender (or potato masher if you don’t have one), blend the beans until mostly smooth.

Continue to cook at low heat while adding the spices, adjusting to taste as necessary.

Makes 3 pints.