Refried Beans

Directions

1. 1
   Soak beans overnight in 2 quarts water and 2 Tsp salt, drain well, and discard water.
2. 2
   Place in pot with 2 quarts fresh water and 2 Tsp salt, and simmer, covered, until soft, stirring occasionally, and adding more water if beans start to get dry.
3. 3
   This will probably take a while, because the salt slows down cooking.
4. 4
   Drain beans, and discard all but 1/2 cup of the liquid.
5. 5
   In a large skillet, fry and mash 1/4 of beans at a time with 1/4 of the bacon fat.
6. 6
   They should be lumpy-smooth, not real smooth.
7. 7
   Return mashed beans to the pot as they are finished.
8. 8
   Add remaining ingredients, and heat and stir until fairly smooth.
9. 9
   Thin with a little of the cooking liquid if necessary, but not too much.
10. 10
    Adjust seasoning as necessary.
11. 11
    Top with cheese, if desired.