The Best Refried Beans | Saveur

Ingredients

• 1½ cups dried pinto beans
• 1 tsp. kosher salt, plus more if needed
• 1 garlic clove
• 1 red bell pepper, halved and seeded
• 1 cup coarsely chopped white onion, divided
• 4 bacon slices
• 1 Tbsp. vegetable oil
• 2 Tbsp. finely chopped cilantro leaves
• ¼ cup grated cotija cheese (optional)