Provided is a method for rapid preparation of authentic refried beans from dehydrated starting material such as bean flakes. The method comprises the steps of providing a heated cooking surface, adding dehydrated beans to the heated cooking surface, adding water, stirring the mixture to achieve a bean mixture or slurry until the product begins to pull away from the heated cooking surface and browning begins to occur. The heated cooking surface optionally comprises cooking oil and further optionally comprises ingredients for sauteing thereon. This method enhances and intensifies the flavor of the refried bean product, thus producing a traditional frijoles refritos.