Refried beans

Not fried at all in fact. The name is lost in translation. In Spanish the name of this dish is Frijoles refritos which translates as recooked beans. This is a must when we have fajitas at home, I have adapted a recipe from Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall’s Veg recipe book.

In a frying pan, heat a little oil and throw in a couple of handfuls of frozen diced onions, a good shake of frozen garlic (or fresh or from a jar) and gently sauté. If you have a fresh tomato then grate it into the pan or use a tomato from a can or some diluted tomato puree.  If you like a bit of spice then a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can be added.

Drain and rinse a can of kidney beans then add them to the pan. Gently heat them while mashing them with a fork or wooden spoon. When they are hot they are ready.

They can be served with thick slices of wholemeal toast with a little grated cheese. Or eat them with warmed corn or wheat tortillas with some stir fried frozen veggies. If you have some yoghurt or creme fraiche then a spoonful of either is perfect.  If you have opened a can of tomatoes then another tomato or two could be turned into a bit of salsa. You might prefer a bit of hot sauce.  A sprinkle of frozen coriander is a nice touch.