Easy Vegan Refried Beans

Step 1

Coat the bottom of a large skillet with the oil and place it over medium-high heat.

Step 2

Give the oil a minute to heat up, then add the onion. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes, until soft and beginning to brown.

Step 3

Add the garlic, cumin, and oregano to the skillet. Cook everything for about 1 minute, until the garlic becomes very fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in the beans and water. Raise the heat and bring the water to a boil.

Step 5

Lower the heat and allow the water to simmer for about 10 minutes, until most of it has evaporated and the beans have softened a bit. You can add more water to the skillet if it becomes too dry while cooking.

Step 6

Remove the skillet from heat. Mash the beans as much as you like with a fork or potato masher — they can be made creamy or left somewhat chunky. It's up to you!

Step 7

Return the skillet to the burner and reheat the beans if needed. You can also add more water if needed.

Step 8

Remove the skillet from the burner and season the beans with lime juice and salt.

Step 9

Serve.