Homemade Refried Beans

As prices of canned refried beans have gone up, I looked for an alternative to paying $.80-$1/can and decided to make my own. It’s so simple and doesn’t take much time or effort.

1 bag pinto beans
water
bacon grease or veg shortening (optional)
salt to taste

Soak beans overnight. Cook over low heat 3-4 hours until tender. Drain. Mash with potato masher until they resemble refried beans. Add bacon grease/shortening & salt to taste. Use ice cream scoop to make large “scoops” onto cookie sheet. Freeze. Once frozen you can place them all into a large freezer bag for easy storage. To use for meals, take one or two out of freezer and thaw on medium power in the microwave for a couple of minutes. So simple and very economical.