Today we take on another popular question about Mexican food: Why are refried beans called like that? Keep reading and learn more about this versatile and delicious dish.
The name “refried beans” is a bit of a misnomer, as the beans are only fried once. The Spanish name of the dish, frijoles refritos, translates to “well-fried beans,” which is where the English name comes from.
Refried Beans and Mexican Cuisine
Refried beans, and beans in general, play a fundamental role in Mexican cuisine. In almost any Mexican household, beans can be served three times a day without anyone batting an eye.
Every region of Mexico puts its own twist on refried beans. In most places, families go through the entire “bean cycle”: first, they eat their beans “caldosos” in what can be described as a bean soup. Those beans are fried until the liquid evaporates and then mashed to produce the paste-like consistency that makes refried beans so versatile.
Why Are Refried Beans Called Like that?
The name “refried beans” can cause some understandable confusion. In English, we use the prefix “re” to talk about things that happen two times: “reuse,” “recycle,” and “recreate” are some examples that come to mind. Does this mean that refried beans are fried twice? Not really.
As you may have noticed already, languages can be funny and words often have more than one sense. Now, “refried beans” is a literal translation of the Spanish term “frijoles refritos.” It just so happens that in this case, “refritos” doesn’t mean “fried twice” but only “well fried,” as the Dictionary of Mexican Spanish can attest.
So now you know. When you order refried beans, you are not getting beans that have been fried twice, just beans that have been fried once to delight your taste buds.
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FAQ
What do they call refried beans in Mexico?
What is the Spanish word for refried beans?
How do you order refried beans in Spanish?
What are the Mexican beans called?
What is Mexican refried beans?
Mexican cuisine is known for its rich flavors and diversity, and one of the most beloved dishes is refried beans. This staple food is versatile, easy to make, and can be enjoyed in many ways. Mexican refried beans are a delicious and nutritious dish that can be served as a side dish, dip, or main course.
Can you freeze refried beans?
Freezing refried beans is a simple and practical solution for dealing with leftovers. You can reheat them on the stove or in the microwave.
Are refried beans Tex-Mex?
In the United States, refried beans are most commonly made from pinto beans. They are served as a side dish with most Tex-Mex restaurant meals. They also have become very popular as a dip for corn tortilla chips. Refried beans are also a primary ingredient in many tostada, chimichanga, and pupusa recipes.
Are refried beans popular in Latin America?
Refried beans are also popular in many other Latin American countries. The English “refried beans” is a mistranslation, since the essence of “frijoles refritos” is the reheating and mashing of the beans.