Refried Black Beans (Caraotas negras refritas)

Refried black beans, or simply "refried," are a classic of Venezuelan cuisine. They are a delight to fill arepas, empanadas, and carabinas. You can serve them for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner.

📝 Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1/3 cup onion (finely chopped)
• 1/4 cup red bell pepper (without veins or seeds, finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons ají dulce (finely chopped)
• 3 cups black bean soup from the previous day
• 1 pinch cumin
• Salt
• 1 cup Venezuelan white cheese, (llanero-style, grated)
• 2 Hass avocados (peeled, seeded, and sliced)
• 2 tablespoons green onion (only the green part, chopped)
• 4 teaspoons Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1Heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat and sauté the garlic and onion until they wilt, about 3 minutes.
2. 2Add the red bell pepper and ají dulce, and sauté for 3-4 more minutes.
3. 3Add the beans, ensuring they don't have too much liquid.
4. 4Add the cumin, stir, and sauté until the grains begin to boil.
5. 5Once it comes to a boil, lower the heat and simmer, uncovered and stirring occasionally, until the beans are dry, about 10 minutes.
6. 6Spread the beans on a plate, garnish with cheese, avocado and green onion.
7. 7Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and season with salt.