If you make your own beans, do not skimp on the hot bacon drippings, butter, or lard called for in order to cut calories; the secret of the best beans is ample use of fat. Canned beans can be improved by additional cooking with more flavorful fat.

The name "refried" should not be taken literally to mean "fried again". The prefix "re" in Spanish can mean merely "very" or "thoroughly". One frying is enough if it is a thorough one.