Much better flavor than canned refried beans! These are made from dried pinto beans. Of course, you can add black beans in place of some or all of the pinto beans. I added these to my tacos (https://www.cherylsrecipes.net/recipe/tacos/) last night, and it was fantastic!
Place beans, water, onion, garlic, chicken base, cumin, salt, pepper, and cayenne in crock pot. Cook on high until beans are tender (8 hours or so).
Heat the lard in large skillet over medium-medium high heat.
Drain beans and add to skillet. Mash the beans coarsely with the back of a wooden spoon, adding more chicken broth if needed, to moisten.
Stir in the cilantro and lime juice.
Top with shredded cheese.
Since I have a soy allergy, I obviously cannot have soy sauce, which is in nearly every Chinese recipe out there! This is a great substitute for soy sauce, and it is reduced sodium! It will keep in the refrigerator for months.
Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and boil gently, uncovered, for about 30 minutes, or until mixture is reduced to 2 cups. Store in the refrigerator. Stir before using.
This is for the die-hard cheese lovers! If it is too strong for your tastes, go with a mild or medium cheddar instead or substitute with your favorite cheese! We have sometimes added Swiss, Provolone, Pepper Jack and others to the recipe.
Of course, if you don’t have a wheat allergy or intolerance, you can use all-purpose flour and semolina macaroni in the same proportions as the recipe.
Fill a medium sized saucepan with water for cooking macaroni. Turn on heat to high. When it boils, add macaroni and cook according to package directions. Do NOT overcook the macaroni!
Meanwhile, begin cubing the cheese. Melt butter in a skillet. Add flour and stir to make a roux. Add 1 1/4 cups milk and stir, cooking on medium heat, to thicken. Add cheese cubes. Stir until melted and sauce is smooth. You can add a little extra milk if you think it is necessary. Combine the cheese and cooked macaroni. It may seem a little thin at first, but if you let it sit for 5 minutes, the macaroni will absorb a lot of the liquid and it will be a nice consistency.
Recipe Notes
Although spelt is actually a type of wheat flour, most people with wheat allergies can digest spelt with no problem. Obviously, you should not eat spelt if it is a problem for you.
Saute onion and ham with butter.
In a bowl, slightly beat the eggs. Season with salt & pepper.
Add ham mixture, hash browns and cheeses.
Bake in 9x13" pan at 350 degrees for 45-50 minutes, or until eggs are set.
Let stand 10-15 minutes, then cut and serve.
