kind of bean used in refried beans nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling the New York Times crossword and got stuck on "kind of bean used in refried beans," you've come to the right place. We provide the most common answers, explanations, and tips to help you complete your puzzle and improve your solving skills.
Solutions for "kind of bean used in refried beans nyt crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
PINTO: The most common and traditional bean used for refried beans. Its name, "pinto," is Spanish for "painted," referring to its speckled appearance.
5 Letters
BLACK: While pinto beans are primary, black beans are also frequently used, especially in different regional variations of refried beans.
More About "kind of bean used in refried beans nyt crossword"
The clue "kind of bean used in refried beans" frequently appears in crosswords due to the distinctive nature of this staple Mexican dish. The definitive answer for most puzzles is PINTO. Pinto beans are beige with reddish-brown speckles and become a creamy texture when cooked and mashed, making them ideal for the consistency of refried beans.
Refried beans, or frijoles refritos, are a fundamental component of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, often served as a side dish with various meals such as burritos, tacos, or enchiladas. The term "refried" is a bit of a misnomer in English, as it doesn't mean fried twice, but rather "well-fried" or "intensely fried" in Spanish, referring to the process of mashing and frying them with lard or oil until they achieve their signature rich flavor and texture.
While pinto beans are the classic choice, it's worth noting that black beans are also used in certain culinary traditions to make a similar dish, sometimes referred to as black refried beans. However, for a general crossword clue, especially from a major publisher like the NYT, PINTO is almost always the intended answer due to its widespread recognition as the primary ingredient.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Common Associations: For clues like "kind of bean used in refried beans," try to recall the most common or traditional answer first. Crossword constructors often aim for the most widely recognized term.
- Consider Letter Count: Once you have a potential answer in mind, always check if its letter count matches any available slots. This is a crucial step in confirming your guess. For "PINTO," it's 5 letters.
- Look for Plurals or Variations: Sometimes a clue might hint at a plural or a less common variant. If your first guess doesn't fit, think if there's a closely related word that does. For example, "BLACK" beans are a common alternative.
- Utilize Cross-References: Don't try to solve a tough clue in isolation. Look at the intersecting words (the "cross" in crossword). Letters from solved intersecting clues can often provide the necessary hints to unlock the trickier ones.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are refried beans typically made from?
Refried beans (frijoles refritos) are traditionally made from cooked and mashed pinto beans, often seasoned with spices, onions, and lard or oil. They are a staple in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine.
Are other beans used for refried beans besides pinto beans?
While pinto beans are the most traditional, black beans are also commonly used, especially in certain regions or for specific dietary preferences. Sometimes, even kidney beans might be used, though less frequently.
Why is 'NYT crossword' specified in the clue?
Specifying 'NYT crossword' helps narrow down the expected type of answer. The New York Times crossword often uses common knowledge, but sometimes includes specific cultural references or wordplay that is typical of their puzzle style. It also helps solvers who are looking for solutions to that particular puzzle.