Rinse 2 cups dried pinto beans
Soak beans overnight in plenty of water
Drain and rinse beans
Place beans in a pot with fresh water
Add 1 onion, 2 cloves garlic, and 1 bay leaf if desired
Bring to a boil
Reduce heat and simmer until beans are very soft, 1 to 2 hours
Reserve some cooking liquid
Heat 2 tablespoons lard, butter, or oil in a skillet
Add 1 small chopped onion if desired and cook until soft
Add cooked beans to the skillet
Mash beans with a potato masher or spoon
Add reserved cooking liquid a little at a time until desired texture is reached
Season with salt and pepper
Add cumin, chili powder, or garlic powder if desired
Cook and stir until thick and creamy
Serve warm