Refried Beans

Directions

Rinse the beans in water and remove any small stones, pieces of dirt, or bad beans.

Stove Top Method - Put beans into a pot and cover with at least 3 inches of water—about 3 quarts for 2 1/2 cups of dry beans. Bring to a boil and then lower heat to simmer, covered, for about 2 1/2 hours. The cooking time will vary depending on the batch of beans you have. The beans are done when they are soft and the skin is just beginning to break open. Pressure Cooker Method - Put beans into a 4 quart or larger pressure cooker with a 15 lb weight. Fill the pressure cooker with water up to the line that indicates the capacity for the pot . Cook for 30 to 35 minutes, until the beans are soft and the skins are barely breaking open. Allow the pressure cooker to cool completely before opening. If there is resistance when attempting to open the cooker, do not open it, allow it to cool further. Follow the directions for your brand of pressure cooker. Either method - Strain the beans from the cooking water.

Add the onions and lard/fat/oil to a wide, sturdy frying pan on medium high heat. Cook onions until translucent. grated cheddar cheese if you want. When beans are heated through the beans are ready to serve.