Perfect Frijoles Refritos

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1. 1Step 1: Place beans in a large pot, cover with cold water by at least 2 inches, and add herb sprigs, the whole onion half, and garlic cloves. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. 2Step 2: Reduce heat to low and simmer until beans are very tender, 1 to 2 hours. Season with salt to taste.
3. 3Step 3: Drain beans, reserving the cooking liquid. If you have more than 3 cups of cooked beans, measure out 3 cups for the recipe and reserve the rest for another use.
4. 4Step 4: Discard the herb sprigs, onion, and garlic from the beans.
5. 5Step 5: In a large skillet, heat lard, bacon drippings, or oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, or butter until foaming. Add minced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and lightly golden, about 7 minutes.
6. 6Step 6: Stir in the beans and cook for 2 minutes.
7. 7Step 7: Add 1/4 cup of the reserved bean-cooking liquid. Using a bean masher, potato masher, or back of a wooden spoon, smash beans to form a chunky purée; or use a stick blender for a smoother purée.
8. 8Step 8: Thin with more bean cooking liquid to desired consistency. If too wet, simmer and stir until thickened; if too dry, add more cooking liquid, 1 tablespoon at a time, as needed.
9. 9Step 9: Season with salt and serve.