Quick & Easy Vegan Refried Black Beans: Perfect for Quesadillas, Burritos & More

Inspired by: @iszy

Discover how to effortlessly create flavorful, homemade vegan refried black beans that will elevate your weeknight meals! This recipe is a game-changer for anyone seeking a versatile, protein-packed, and budget-friendly staple. Whether you're whipping up delicious vegan quesadillas, hearty burritos, or simply need a fantastic plant-based side dish, these refried black beans are ready in a flash.

Say goodbye to bland, store-bought options and hello to a rich, deeper flavor. As abillion user @iszy shared, these beans are a "staple" and "great to make in a big batch" for a few days of meals. Fellow users can't get enough, with comments like "Your quesadillas look super yummy!!" and "You have some seriously good #quesadilla game!" – proving just how versatile and delicious these beans can be when paired with other vegan favorites like Violife Colby Jack shreds.

This recipe is designed for busy home cooks, vegans, and anyone looking to add a boost of plant-based protein and fiber to their diet with minimal effort.

Ingredients

  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained (about 1 ½ cups cooked)
  • ½ medium onion, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon fajita seasoning, such as Savory Spice fajita seasoning
  • ¼ cup water or vegetable broth
  • Salt to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet or pan
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Potato masher or fork (for mashing)

Instructions

  1. Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the fajita seasoning and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the rinsed and drained black beans to the skillet.
  5. Pour in ¼ cup of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Using a potato masher or a large fork, mash the beans to your desired consistency. For creamier beans, mash more thoroughly. For a chunkier texture, leave some beans whole.
  7. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is absorbed and the beans reach your preferred thickness, about 5-10 minutes.
  8. Taste and adjust with salt as needed.
  9. Serve hot and enjoy!

Images

Delicious vegan refried black beans ready to be enjoyed in quesadillas or burritos.

Ready-to-eat refried black beans, perfect for a hearty vegan meal.

Close-up of black beans simmering in a pan with sautéed onions and spices, ready for mashing.

Black beans cooking in a skillet, building rich flavors.

Variations & Adaptations

  • Pinto Power: Swap black beans for pinto beans for a classic refried bean flavor.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
  • Smoky Flavor: A tiny bit of smoked paprika can add a wonderful depth.
  • Herby Freshness: Stir in fresh chopped cilantro or parsley at the end for a burst of color and flavor.
  • Garlic Boost: Add a clove or two of minced garlic along with the onion for a more aromatic base.
  • Serving Suggestions: Beyond quesadillas and burritos, use these beans as a dip with tortilla chips, a side for tacos, or as a base for hearty grain bowls.

Tips & Hacks

  • Batch Cooking Bliss: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! Make a large batch and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
  • Freezing Friendly: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat gently on the stovetop.
  • Consistency Control: If your beans are too thick, add a tablespoon of water or broth at a time until they reach your desired consistency. If they're too thin, cook them longer, stirring frequently, until the excess liquid evaporates.
  • High-Quality Ingredients: While any canned black beans work, brands like Siete are known for their quality, which can make a noticeable difference in the final taste and texture.

Ready to try this versatile vegan staple? Whip up a batch of these Quick & Easy Vegan Refried Black Beans today and share your delicious creations on abillion!


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