Description
This creamy and flavorful Refried Beans recipe features smoked turkey bacon, natural gelling agent, and plant-based cheese, creating a rich and comforting dish perfect as a side or main. Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients, it delivers bold smoky notes and satisfying texture ideal for Mexican dishes, dips, and bowls.
Ingredients
Scale
Beans and Base
- 2 cups cooked black beans
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Aromatics and Flavorings
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Proteins and Fats
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup plant-based cheese, shredded
Garnish (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Aromatics and Turkey Bacon: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Stir in chopped smoked turkey bacon and cook until lightly crisped and aromatic, releasing a smoky flavor.
- Add Beans and Spices: Stir in the cooked black beans and sprinkle ground cumin over the mixture. Pour in vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) and vegetable broth, then simmer gently to let the beans absorb the flavors.
- Mash and Blend: Using a potato masher or immersion blender, mash the bean mixture to your preferred consistency, either smooth and creamy or slightly chunky, achieving the classic refried bean texture.
- Incorporate Natural Gelling Agent and Cheese: Sprinkle a small amount of natural gelling agent while stirring constantly to thicken the beans perfectly without heaviness. Fold in plant-based cheese so it melts well throughout, adding creaminess and richness.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro if desired and serve warm as a side or a dip.
Notes
- Use day-old beans for better mashing and richer flavor.
- Do not skip smoked turkey bacon for depth of flavor.
- Avoid over-blending to keep some texture.
- Adjust thickness with vegetable broth or water incrementally.
- Fresh onion, garlic, and herbs enhance final taste significantly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: refried beans, black beans, smoked turkey bacon, plant-based cheese, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, natural gelling agent, Mexican side dish, gluten free
