20-Minute Vegan Refried Beans

Vegan refried beans in a bowl with a spoon.

5 from 3 ratings

20-Minute Vegan Refried Beans

I put on my sensory scientist hat to find the perfect oil for replacing lard in this plant-based version of refried beans! Creamy, flavorful, and so easy to make. They're made in one pot and come together in less than 20 minutes making them a household staple. Be sure to see our notes on all the different ways they can be served!

Prep Time5

Cook Time15

Total Time20

Course: Dips, Sauces, and Salsas, Side Dishes

Cuisine: Mexican

Diet: Diabetic, Gluten Free, Halal, Hindu, Kosher, Low Lactose, Low Salt, Vegan, Vegetarian

Keyword: vegan refried beans, vegetarian refried beans

Servings: servings

Author: Sarah Bond

Ingredients

2 Tbsp coconut oil 28 g
½ medium white onion about 1 cup diced
4 cloves garlic minced
1 tsp each cumin, oregano, smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp cayenne pepper
2 15-oz cans pinto beans drained and rinsed, 425 g each
1 cup water 236 mL
1 Tbsp lime juice 15 mL

Instructions

Flavor Base: Heat 2 Tbsp coconut oil in a saute pan over medium heat. Add ½ medium white onion (diced) and cook until soft, about 3 to 5 minutes. Add 4 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tsp each cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp cayenne pepper. Continue cooking for a minute, until garlic is fragrant.
Beans: Add 2 15-oz cans pinto beans and 1 cup water. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 10 minutes.
Mash: Using a potato masher or fork, roughly mash the beans. They will continue to thicken once cooled, but if they're too runny for your preference, continue cooking for a few minutes, uncovered, to thicken.
Serve: Stir in 1 Tbsp lime juice and serve warm!

Video

Notes

Storage: If you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container. They can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to help make them creamy again.

Can these beans be made without oil?

I haven't tried but my thought is no because the oil helps to hold them together. Without it, they might get runny.

Can these be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze refried beans for up to 3 months.

Nutrition