Refried Beans

4 cups water

16 oz. dried pinto beans

1 large onion, chopped

1 stick butter

1 1/2 tsp. salt

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Put onions, beans and water in dutch oven.  Cover and heat to boiling.  Boil 2 minutes.  Remove from heat.  Let stand 1 hour. 

Add just enough water to cover beans.  Heat to boiling; reduce heat.  Cover and boil gently, stirring occasionally until beans are tender, about 2 hours.  (Add water during cooking if necessary.) 

Mash beans.  Stir in butter and salt.  Stir until butter is melted.  Stir in cheese.