Plain Ol' Refried Beans

3 cups cooked pinto beans, drained reserve juice
2 tbsp cooking oil

Heat oil in skillet until test drop sizzles. Spoon in drained beans and working quickly, mash with potato masher or fork. Add reserved juice as needed to keep beans at thick peanut butter consistency, stirring constantly.
Lower heat, salt and pepper to taste and simmer for 5 minutes.

Some like their beans left a bit 'chunky', others prefer a smooth, buttery texture. Much depends on how you are planning on serving them. For the latter, add a small amount of milk and sprinkle a tablespoon of flour in once they are well mashed. Stir constantly, adding small amounts of milk until the beans are smooth and slightly thinner than you desire. Lower heat. Simmer on very low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring regularly.

The more common seasoning ingredients that go well with refried beans include: garlic, onion, cilantro, prepared Italian (use a light hand), prepared chili powder and any of the spicy peppers (fresh or dried) such as cayenne, jalapeno, long green and red chilies.

Serve on tortillas as a burrito, as a side dish garnished with grated cheese or on nachos.
Serves 4 to 8 people, depending on way served.