Most Amazing Bean Dip

Food and wine are the best excuses to get together with old friends. Everyone brought their favorite dishes and we could laugh and talk throughout the evening. If you’re anything like us, you have a few recipes for the occasion. These are recipes you rarely think to make just for your family, but they’re always a hit. Bean paste is one such recipe that our friends beg us to keep making every time we get together. Everyone is used to the generic store-bought bean paste, and our homemade bean paste surprises them every time!

garlic:

There’s nothing like freshly chopped garlic, but you can always substitute 3/4 teaspoon of garlic powder or diced garlic.

Cheese Options:

If you can’t find queso fresco, you can substitute mild feta, queso blanco or even paneer!

The spice level in the most amazing bean paste:

We like that our dips have just enough heat to add flavor without overwhelming anyone. Canned green chilies can have moderate heat, but shouldn’t be too overpowering by itself in this dish. If you want a really mild dip, look for mild canned green chilies, never chilies! If you want a spicier flavor, be sure to use regular canned green chilies and add cayenne peppers. You can even add cayenne to your personal taste preferences.

Is this vegan?

If you want vegan refried beans, be sure to use vegan refried beans. Ordinary refried beans are cooked with animal lard.

If you want to make this completely vegan, choose your favorite plant-based cheese substitute for queso fresco.

Storage Instructions:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat in a skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave in 30-second increments until heated through.

If you liked this recipe, you might be interested in these other delicious appetizer recipes: