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Instant Pot Mexican Refried Beans
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5 from 4 votes

Instant Pot Mexican Refried Beans

Easy and flavorful Instant Pot Mexican Refried Beans!
Cook Time25 mins
Total Time25 mins
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Silvia Ribas

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups dried pinto beans, soaked overnight
  • 4 oz pancetta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cups filtered water
  • 1 pinch salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/4 tsp cumin

Instructions

INSTANT POT INSTRUCTIONS

  • Turn the instant pot on sauté mode. When hot add in oil and pancetta. Let the pancetta sauté for up to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. 
  • Meanwhile drain beans from overnight water and wash beans thoroughly. Add beans and water to instant pot.
  • Turn off sauté function. Close the lid and seal the vent valve. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. When done allow for natural pressure release. 
  • Carefully open the pot. You might want/ need to remove some of the liquid. If needed you can add back the bean liquid during the blending/ mashing process. It’s best to start with less liquid and add if needed* I removed about 1 cup of liquid and didn’t need to add it back. 
  • Add in the spices and seasoning. Using an immersion blender, work it for 1-2 minutes or until you have reached a consistency of your preference. 
  • Serve with fresh cilantro and jalapeño. Refrigerate remaining refried beans in an air tight glass container. 

STOVE TOP INSTRUCTIONS (NO PRESSURE COOKER!)

  • Heat oil in a large pot, preferably a heavier pot such as Dutch oven or cast iron. Add pancetta (can be replaced for bacon or pork belly) let it sauté for up to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. 
  • Meanwhile drain beans from overnight water and wash thoroughly. Add beans and 6 cups water to the pot.
  • Turn the heat down to medium/ medium-high and cover. Cook for about 1 hour and 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom. 
  • Make sure there is some liquid in the pot, otherwise add some water (about 1 cup of liquid needed, either from bean broth or added). Add in the spices and seasoning. Using an immersion blender, work it for 1-2 minutes or until you have reached a consistency of your preference.

Notes

The refried beans will naturally thicken overtime, so aim for a softer consistency to start.