This is a recipe from my mom. It’s called ‘Carrington Bean Dip’ in her recipe notebook, but I have no idea where it came from. I believe a friend of the family used to bring it to Thanksgiving, but neither their name nor ours is Carrington, so who knows? What I do know is that it’s perfect for snow days, tv show binges, or anytime you want a hearty, warm, spicy snack.

16 oz. refried beans
8 oz. sour cream
8 oz. cream cheese, room temp
1 bunch scallions, sliced
4 oz. sliced black olives
Tabasco or other hot sauce to taste
Chili powder, oregano, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt & pepper, &c. to taste (The recipe originally called for a package of taco seasoning, which I don’t use. I usually just throw in spices until it tastes good)
6 oz. Monterey Jack or pepper jack or other melty cheese, grated

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Combine the beans, sour cream and cream cheese thoroughly. Stir in the scallions, olives, hot sauce and spices.

2. Spread mixture in a pie pan or shallow casserole dish. Top with grated cheese. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the dip is bubbling. Let cool 5 minutes and serve with chips, veggies, &c.