Stove-Top Refried Beans

1 pound dry pinto beans, rinsed and sorted

2 Tbsp. minced garlic, divided

2 Tbsp. cumin

1 Tbsp. chili powder

1 small jalapeno pepper, chopped (with seeds for spicier version)

3 Tbsp. chopped red onion

1 tsp. kosher salt

2 Tbsp. olive oil

Additional salt to taste

Fill a large pot with the dried beans and cover with water an inch above beans. Bring beans to a boil, then drain.

Return beans to the pot and cover with water TWO inches above beans, add 1 Tbsp. minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, jalapeno pepper, onion and salt. Bring to a boil and lower to simmer. Cover beans. Cook 3 1/2 hours on simmer, adding more water as needed to keep from burning. Check to see if beans are tender. If there is a lot of water, drain water into a glass and save (you will need this later).

 Mash beans with a potato masher, adding olive oil and the other 1 Tbsp. minced garlic. Add water for smooth consistency. Cook for another 1/2 hour, stirring regularly. Add more water if needed and additional salt to taste.

Makes about 12 servings. You can freeze the leftovers for another meal or save for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

For variety and non-vegetarian version, use bacon grease instead of olive oil.