Machacadora (Wooden Bean Masher)

The most wonderful thing that you had no idea that you wanted: the best tool for making refried beans (and a fine sauerkraut masher as well). We've been looking for a good machacadora for years. Who hasn't? Normally when you find them they are made of cheap pine and split even with oiling and care. This beautiful version comes from Michoacan and uses a local wood called granadillo that looks a little like pomegranate wood and only grows in the southern part of the state. To make really memorable refried beans, saute white onion rings in some freshly rendered lard, bacon fat or olive oil. Obviously lard is the best choice here but olive oil is perfectly delicious, just not so authentic. When the onions are soft, add some beans and their broth. Allow to heat and then start running your machacadora along the bottom of the skillet. The bean, fat and onions will start to incorporate and you will start to salivate! Keep going until you have the texture you like. Smooth as velvet or chunky an