Photo credit: www.bonappetit.com
In the past, purchasing refried beans meant opting for the cheapest can I could find at the grocery store without much thought. However, it has become clear that different brands offer a vastly different taste experience. For those who prefer not to make refried beans from scratch, it’s worth exploring superior options available in stores.
This prompted the Bon Appétit team to conduct a taste test aimed at identifying the most palatable brand of refried beans on the shelf. Our test kitchen emphasizes that the hallmark of great refried beans lies in achieving the right balance. A well-executed dollop can enhance various dishes, from spiced beef tostadas to vegetable nachos, or serve as a comforting base for a fried egg and pickled red onions. The ideal beans exhibit the right amount of seasoning and character without overwhelming the other flavors of a dish. They should have a pleasing texture—structured yet not overly starchy, creamy yet not greasy.
The term refried is a common misinterpretation stemming from the Spanish term frijoles refrito. The word refrito more accurately translates to “well-fried,” which better represents the cooking method involved. Refried beans are integral to the culinary traditions of Mexico and Latin America, though ingredients and preparation methods differ widely by region. Common types of beans used include black, pinto, and various heirloom varieties. Typically, the beans are boiled, drained, and then sautéed in some type of fat—be it lard, vegetable oil, or bacon—along with flavorful additions like garlic, onions, or peppers, and then mashed into a spreadable consistency.
Given the multitude of variables, our taste test was quite challenging, yet our team was determined to find the best options. In our blind taste test, we evaluated eleven different brands of refried beans to discover which one stood out as the top contender.
How we selected the brands
The process began with discussions among the Bon Appétit staff to identify any preferred brands of refried beans. Amy’s brand received notable mentions, alongside Old El Paso. Subsequently, we researched popular and lesser-known brands to compile a comprehensive list.
From this initial list, we focused strictly on what each brand defines as its “traditional” variant, excluding reduced-sodium options and those with specific flavorings, such as “green chile.” One exception was Trader Joe’s fat-free refried beans, as this was the only variety from this store available in our location at the time of the taste test.
The selection of refried beans we chose comprised a diverse mix of vegan, vegetarian, and meat-inclusive varieties, allowing us to assess how plant-based options compared to their meatier counterparts.
When homemade refried beans aren’t an option, it is crucial to know which canned varieties can deliver exceptional flavor and quality.
Setting up the blind taste test
To ensure that we delivered the best possible tasting experience, we began our preparation by transferring the contents of each can into bowls and heating them in a microwave. We then assessed their spreadability before sharing them with our tasting panel, ensuring the beans were served warm and inviting.
Source
www.bonappetit.com