1. Heat heavy skillet or pan (I use cast iron) over medium heat. Add oil, then add beans, garlic, onion, pepper, and cumin. Cook and stir, mashing with a spoon or spatula as you stir and adding a little water as needed.

2. Cook until beans are hot and as smooth as desired (I like mine chunky!). Add salt to taste and a few splashes of hot sauce along with freshly chopped cilantro if desired.

Serve hot with tortilla chips for dipping, or use in any recipe calling for refried beans.