Refried Beans From Cooking Class

Step 1: First Step:

Step 2: Dice half the onion and mince the other half. Set aside minced portion.

Step 3: Sort through beans, picking out any small stones or debris. Rinse.

Step 4: Place beans, diced onion, water and shortening in heavy pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer 1 1/2 hours or until tender, not soft. Beans may be tender by 45 minutes.

Step 5: Stir in salt, cover and simmer over very low heat for another 30-45 minutes, until very soft. Do not drain. If finishing tomorrow, refrigerate overnight.

Step 6: Second Step:

Step 7: Heat shortening in large skillet over high heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, reduce heat to medium and cook until onion is softened, about 4 minutes.

Step 8: Increase heat back to high and add 1 cup un-drained beans. Mash with a bean or potato masher while cooking.

Step 9: As beans begin to dry, add another cup un-drained beans, adjusting heat as needed. Continue with until all beans and liquid resemble a coarse puree. Total cooking time will be around 20 minutes.

Step 10: Serve hot, garnish with shredded cheese.