Homemade White Refried Beans

Add drained and rinsed beans to a medium bowl.

Heat a small skillet over medium high heat and saute oil and shallots together for 1-2 minutes. Add spices and salt and continue to saute for another 30 seconds. Add brown sugar and cook for another 30-45 seconds until sugar starts to melt and caramelize. Remove from heat and add to the bowl with the beans.

Using a fork or a potato masher, mash beans and shallot mixture until coarsely combined. Add in 2 tablespoons of the reserved liquid to help mash further and smooth out the beans (add more liquid if you want the beans creamier/smoother). Mix in the chopped cilantro last and finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste (it may not need any depending on your taste).

Note: Use any kind of bean you like. Pinto are the most traditional for refried beans.