Gloria's Refried Beans

My friend Gloria is from mexico and makes refried beans just like you get in a good Mexican restaurant. I begged her for the recipe, and I'll share it with you. Cook time includes 2 hr. soaking time.

• Ready In: 6 hrs 5 mins
• Serves: 6-8

Ingredients

• 1  lb dried pinto bean, cleaned (Be sure to wash your beans VERY WELL. Pinto beans can be gritty if not thoroughly cleaned)
• 5  cups water
• 1 -2  medium onion, diced
• 1⁄2-1  cup  hot bacon drippings
•  salt

Directions

1. Combine beans, water, and onion in a large dutch oven.
2. Bring to a boil, cover, and remove from heat for 2 hours (or soak beans in cold water overnight) Return to heat, bring to a boil, and simmer slowly until beans are very tender, about 3 hours.
3. Coarsely mash beans with a potato masher, and add bacon drippings; mix well.
4. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until beans are thickened and fat is absorbed.
5. Salt to taste.