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    Home » Recipes » Side Dishes

    Low Sodium Refried Beans

    Modified: Apr 1, 2025 · Published: Mar 30, 2023 by Nicole Kendrick · This post may contain affiliate links.

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    These healthy low sodium refried beans will make you ditch the store-bought variety and say "hello" to flavorful refried black beans. This homemade version is lower in fat and sodium than canned versions.

    Try these luscious legumes packed with fiber and nutrients because they are particularly rich in anthocyanins *A group of deep red, purple, and blue pigments found in plants. They are part of compounds called "flavonoids", which produce health benefits that are similar to antioxidants.

    Additionally, this recipe is easy to make and ready to eat in minutes. The beans are layered with zesty flavors; that make them the perfect accompaniment to a Mexican meal.

    Healthy Refried Black Beans with parsley and lime

    These delicious legumes lend an important base layer element to my Gluten Free Healthy Shrimp Tostada recipe. Additionally, pair the beans with my Dairy Free Mexican Street Corn Tacos to make a healthy Mexican feast that the whole family will enjoy.

    Jump to:
    • Ingredients
    • Instructions
    • Substitutions
    • Equipment
    • Storage
    • FAQ
    • Looking for more vegan recipe favorites?
    • 📖 Recipe
    • 💬 Comments

    Ingredients

    Healthy Refried Black Beans
    • black beans 
    • cumin
    • paprika
    • garlic
    • smoked paprika
    • onion powder
    • salt 
    • pepper
    • onion 
    • lime juice 
    • dairy free butter
    • organic garlic-infused olive oil

    Optional:

    • jalapeño 

    See the recipe card for quantities.

    Instructions

    • First, open can(s) of beans and DO NOT DRAIN.
    • Next, add beans with canning liquid and all other ingredients to a medium-sized saucepan, then cook over medium-high heat. Simultaneously, stir beans frequently to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
    • Then, bring beans to a boil and concurrently reduce to low-medium. Next, simmer for about 10 minutes, and stir occasionally. *If beans continue to boil after heat, then further reduce heat to low.
    • Lastly, once the sauce begins to thicken, then use a potato masher *or large fork, to press down on the beans to mash them into the consistency of refried beans. After beans are mashed, continue to cook them on low heat for an additional 5 minutes, stirring constantly, and then, serve immediately.

    Substitutions

    I chose black beans for this recipe because they are high in fiber and other nutrients. However, substitute the black beans for pinto beans, or cannellini (Italian white) beans.

    Equipment

    A potato masher is recommended for this recipe and yields the best result. However, a large fork will do the job if you do not have a potato masher. For extra smooth beans, puree the cooked mixture in a high-speed blender and serve.

    Storage

    Leftover beans are stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Additionally, use extra beans as a base for tacos, tostadas, and burritos. Equally, garnish them with cheese and/or cilantro and green onion for a delicious bean dip.

    FAQ

    Can I freeze refried beans?

    Yes, you can freeze refried beans. Freezing refried beans is a convenient way to preserve them for later use.

    Are any carbs in refried black beans?

    Refried black beans are a nutritious source of carbohydrates. The exact amount of carbohydrates in refried black beans can vary depending on the recipe and any added ingredients.

    However, here is a general estimate of the carbohydrate content in refried black beans:

    In a ½ cup (about 125 grams) serving of canned refried black beans, there are approximate:

    • Total carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
    • Dietary fiber: 5-8 grams
    • Sugar: 0-2 grams

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    📖 Recipe

    black beans in a white bowl

    Low Sodium Refried Beans

    These low sodium refried beans are so versatile, you can serve them in tacos, on nachos, lettuce wraps, or even as a dip. I highly recommend you add a layer of these onto your tacos the next time you make them. This is a double recipe and can be cut in half.
    5 from 21 votes
    Nicole Kendrick
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 5 minutes mins
    Cook Time 10 minutes mins
    Total Time 15 minutes mins
    Course Appetizer, Side Dish
    Cuisine Mexican
    Servings 8
    Calories 40 kcal

    Equipment

    • Potato masher

    Ingredients
      

    • 2 15 oz cans black beans do not drain
    • 1.5 teaspoon cumin
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • ¾ teaspoon garlic
    • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
    • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
    • Salt to taste
    • pepper to taste
    • 2 tablespoon onion minced
    • 1 tablespoon lime juice fresh squeezed
    • 1.5 tablespoon dairy free butter
    • 1 tablespoon organic garlic infused olive oil

    Optional

    • 2-4 teaspoon jalapeño seeds removed, add to taste

    Instructions
     

    • First, open can(s) of beans and DO NOT DRAIN.
    • Next, add beans with canning liquid and all other ingredients to a medium-sized saucepan, and cook over medium high heat, stirring well and frequently to prevent sticking.
    • Then, bring beans to a boil and simultaneously reduce to low-medium once they are boiling. Next, simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. *If beans continue to boil after reducing heat, then further reduce heat to low.
    • Lastly, once sauce begins to thicken, then use potato masher *or large fork, to press down beans and mash them into the consistency of refried beans. After beans are mashed, continue to cook on low heat for an additional 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Serve immediately.

    Notes

    Nutrition: 
    Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation. The owner of this site is not responsible for nutrition facts.
    -> Use these beans as a base for tacos, tostadas, and burritos, not just as a side dish. These beans are also excellent when topped with queso fresco cheese or sour cream, and sliced green onion as a bean dip paired with tortilla chips.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1gCalories: 40kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 0.2gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.4gSodium: 15mgPotassium: 27mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 0.2gVitamin A: 212IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 0.4mg
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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    5 from 21 votes (21 ratings without comment)

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    Hello! I’m Nicole Kendrick, the creator of Golden Grace Kitchen, a holistic nutritionist, and a certified health coach. I was diagnosed with Celiac Disease in 2013, which means every recipe you find here will always be gluten-free.

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