Bean dip is a popular appetizer or snack food that is often served with tortilla chips for dipping. But what exactly is bean dip? Is it just refried beans or something more? Here is a deep dive into bean dip and whether or not it’s the same as refried beans.
What is Bean Dip?
Bean dip is a type of dip or spread that is made primarily from mashed beans. It typically has a thick, creamy texture and is flavored with various seasonings. Some of the most common types of bean dip include:
- Refried bean dip – Made from refried pinto or black beans.
- Hummus – Made from chickpeas.
- Black bean dip – Made from black beans.
- White bean dip – Made from cannellini or great northern beans.
- Edamame dip – Made from shelled edamame.
- Roasted red pepper bean dip – Made from beans and roasted red peppers.
The beans used in dips are usually cooked until very soft and then mashed or processed to create a smooth, spreadable texture. Ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, tahini, spices, and herbs are then mixed in to add flavor.
Are Bean Dips Just Refried Beans?
While some types of bean dip are nearly identical to refried beans, not all bean dips can be classified as “just refried beans.” Here are some key differences between bean dip and refried beans:
- Bean Type – Refried beans are made specifically from pinto or black beans that have been boiled, mashed, then fried. Bean dips can be made from other beans like chickpeas, cannellini beans, great northern beans, or edamame.
- Texture – Refried beans have a chunkier, drier texture compared to the velvety smooth texture of most bean dips.
- Flavor – Refried beans are typically seasoned with just onion, garlic, and epazote. Bean dips have a wider range of seasonings like lemon juice, tahini, roasted red peppers, green chiles, cumin, and cilantro.
- Fat Content – Authentic refried beans are fried in lard or oil. Most bean dips have lower fat content with the consistency coming from the bean puree rather than added fats.
So while some bean dips are nearly identical to refried bean recipes, many bean dips are their own distinct dishes made with unique bean varieties, textures, and flavor profiles.
Are There Differences Between Refried Beans and Refried Bean Dip?
Even though they share part of their name, there are some differences between “refried beans” and “refried bean dip.”
Refried beans are made by:
- Boiling pinto or black beans until fully cooked and softened.
- Mashing the cooked beans into a paste.
- Frying the mashed beans in lard or oil to develop texture.
- Seasoning the fried bean paste with onion, garlic, epazote, and salt.
Refried bean dip follows a similar process but with some key differences:
- The beans are usually mashed to a smoother, creamier consistency.
- The bean paste may not be fried, instead relying on the natural starchiness of the beans to create thickness.
- More liquid like olive oil or broth may be added to create a dip-able texture.
- More spices, herbs, and other flavorings are typically added.
So in summary, while both refried beans and refried bean dip start with cooked, mashed beans, the bean dip has a smoother consistency and more complex seasoning.
Nutritional Profile
The nutritional profile of bean dips and refried beans can vary depending on the exact ingredients and preparation method. However, here is a general nutrition comparison of the two foods:
| Nutrient | Refried Beans | Bean Dip |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 114 cal per 1/2 cup | 138 cal per 1/2 cup |
| Fat | 3.5g per 1/2 cup | 8g per 1/2 cup |
| Protein | 7g per 1/2 cup | 4g per 1/2 cup |
| Carbs | 15g per 1/2 cup | 12g per 1/2 cup |
| Fiber | 5g per 1/2 cup | 2g per 1/2 cup |
As you can see, bean dips tend to be higher in fat and calories compared to refried beans, likely owing to more added oils and flavorings. However, refried beans contain more protein and fiber.
Popularity and Uses
Both refried beans and bean dips have grown in popularity over the years:
- Refried Beans – Refried beans are a staple ingredient in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisines. They are commonly used in dishes like burritos, nachos, tacos, enchiladas, and tamales. Refried beans are also frequently served as a side dish. Their popularity has increased along with the rise of Mexican food restaurants and Tex-Mex chains in the U.S.
- Bean Dips – Bean dips have surged in popularity, especially hummus. As consumers look for plant-based foods and more options for snacking and entertaining, bean dips have become a go-to appetizer. The global bean dip market size was valued at USD 1.65 billion in 2021 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 5.8% from 2022 to 2030.
While both foods are now mainstream, bean dip has seen stronger commercial growth in recent years. However, refried beans maintain an integral place in Mexican cuisine.
How are bean dips and refried beans commonly used?
Refried Beans
- Burritos, tacos, enchiladas, tamales
- Nachos
- Quesadillas
- Tostadas
- Side dish
Bean Dips
- Appetizer with chips/veggies
- Sandwich spread
- Pizza topping
- Fillings for wraps
- Toppings for salads, nachos, baked potatoes
Comparison of Popular Brands
There are many popular brands of refried beans and bean dips available in grocery stores. Here is a comparison of some leading options:
Refried Beans
| Brand | Type | Ingredients | Fat/Serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rosarita | Traditional | Pinto beans, vegetable oil, salt | 4.5g |
| Amy’s | Organic | Pinto beans, expeller pressed canola oil, onion, sea salt | 2g |
| Taco Bell | Traditional | Pinto beans, soybean oil, salt | 3g |
Bean Dips
| Brand | Type | Ingredients | Fat/Serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sabra | Classic Hummus | Chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, sea salt | 7g |
| Tribe | Medium Roasted Red Pepper Hummus | Chickpeas, roasted red peppers, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil | 5g |
| Good Foods | Black Bean Dip | Black beans, olive oil, sea salt | 4.5g |
As seen above, products vary widely in ingredients and nutrition profiles. When choosing bean dips and refried beans, be sure to read labels to find options that fit your preferences and dietary needs.
Price Comparison of Making Homemade vs. Store-bought
Is it cheaper to make bean dip and refried beans at home rather than buying pre-made options? Here is a price comparison:
Refried Beans
Homemade:
- 1 lb dry pinto beans = $1.99
- Onion, garlic, other seasonings = ~$0.30
- Lard or oil = $0.10
- Total = $2.39 for ~4 servings
Store-bought (16 oz can):
- Rosarita = $1.69
- Amy’s = $3.69
- Taco Bell = $1.79
Bean Dip
Homemade Hummus:
- 1 lb dry chickpeas = $1.99
- Tahini, olive oil, seasonings = ~$0.75
- Total = $2.74 for ~4 servings
Store-bought (8 oz tub):
- Sabra = $4.29
- Tribe = $3.99
- Good Foods = $4.49
Based on these estimates, making bean dip and refried beans at home is roughly 50-75% cheaper than buying ready-made options. However, store-bought allows you to save prep time.
Storing and Shelf Life
Properly storing bean dips and refried beans is important for safety and maximizing shelf life. Here are some tips:
Refried Beans
- Store opened canned refried beans in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
- Freeze leftover homemade refried beans in airtight containers for 2-3 months.
- Look for any signs of spoilage like mold, off smells, or weird textures before eating.
Bean Dips
- Store opened hummus and bean dips in sealed containers for 3-5 days.
- To extend shelf life, pour a thin layer of olive oil over the top before sealing.
- Freeze bean dip for up to 3 months.
- Discard if mold grows or you notice any sour or off smells.
Properly stored, both bean dips and refried beans should maintain quality and safety for around 4-5 days in the fridge. Freezing gives them months-long shelf life.
Conclusion
While bean dip and refried beans appear very similar, there can be distinct differences depending on factors like bean type, texture, fat content, and flavor profiles. Many types of bean dip are unique dishes in their own right and not just simply refried beans. However, some bean dips like refried bean dip are nearly identical to standard refried beans.
Both refried beans and bean dips have skyrocketed in popularity in recent decades. When choosing which to buy or make at home, consider your taste preferences, nutrition needs, budget, and how you plan to use them. With proper storage in the fridge or freezer, both products can have fairly long shelf life. So dip in and enjoy these tasty bean-based spreads and dips!