Smashed Beans
These smashed beans — also called mashed beans — are chunkier, zestier, and more flavorful than refried beans, made with pinto and black beans, garlic, cumin, and fresh lime in just 15 minutes. Naturally vegan and gluten-free.
Ingredients
Beans
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- ½ red onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced or pressed
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon coriander
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 2 15 oz cans pinto beans drained
- 1 15 oz can black beans undrained
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice plus more to taste
Garnishes (Optional)
- chopped cilantro
- lime wedges optional
- sliced avocado
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a medium to large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced red onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened and becoming translucent.
- Add the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, and chili powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic is golden and fragrant.
- Add the drained pinto beans and undrained black beans. Bring to a boil and cook 6-8 minutes, stirring regularly until the liquid thickens slightly.
- Add the lime juice and salt. Reduce heat to medium-low and stir to combine.
- Mash the beans with a heavy fork or potato masher — leave plenty of whole beans for texture, or mash more thoroughly for a creamier consistency.
- Stir over medium-low heat for 1–2 minutes until the mixture is thick and cohesive. Remove from heat.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Season the beans to taste with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges and sliced avocado, if desired.
Notes
- Don't drain the black beans — the liquid is essential for the sauce consistency.
- Pinto beans: Drain both cans before adding.
- Texture tip: Mash about ⅔ of the beans and leave ⅓ whole for the best texture.
- Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne or a diced jalapeño sautéed with the onion.
- All pinto option: Use 3 cans of pinto beans (drain 2, keep 1 undrained).
- Storage: Refrigerate 4–5 days. Freeze up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of water.
- Naturally vegan and gluten-free as written.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 243kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 11gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 636mgFiber: 14gSugar: 2g
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