These crispy black bean tacos are a fun and healthy meal! Filled with tasty black beans, fresh veggies, and topped with your favorite salsa, every bite is a delight!
Plus, they’re super easy to whip up—just fill, fold, and fry! I love adding extra toppings like avocado or cheese to make them even yummier. Get ready for a taco night! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Black Beans: Canned black beans are super convenient! If you prefer, you can use dried beans—just soak and cook them ahead of time. You can also swap black beans for pinto beans or chickpeas for different flavors!
Onion and Garlic: I use yellow onions for their sweetness, but you could use red or even green onions. If you’re not a garlic fan, you can skip it or use garlic powder—start with a small amount.
Spices: Ground cumin and chili powder are key for flavor, but feel free to add your own favorites, like oregano or a bit of cayenne for heat. If you want a milder flavor, just use less spice!
Cheese: If you’re keeping it dairy-free, skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. I enjoy adding extra cheese on top after frying for a melty finish!
Tortillas: Corn tortillas give the best crunch, but you can also use flour tortillas. If you’re gluten-free, look for corn tortillas labeled as such.
How Do I Make Sure My Tacos Are Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispiness is all about the skillet and the oil! Here’s how to ensure your tacos turn out crunchy:
- Heat the oil until it’s shimmering before adding the tacos—this helps them crisp up quickly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook a few at a time to get even heat across each taco.
- Flip the tacos gently to avoid spilling the filling. A spatula helps! Cook until both sides are golden brown.
Enjoy the satisfying crunch with each bite! With these tips, you’ll make crispy black bean tacos every time!
Crispy Black Bean Tacos – Easy Healthy Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend), optional
For the Tacos:
- 6 small corn tortillas
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick and healthy option. In about 25 minutes, you can enjoy crispy, homemade black bean tacos!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Black Bean Filling:
In a medium bowl, mash the black beans lightly with a fork or potato masher, leaving some beans chunky for texture. Stir in the chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika (if using), and season with salt and pepper. If you’re adding cheese, mix it in now to create a creamy filling.
2. Assemble the Tacos:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil. While it heats, take a tortilla and place it flat on a surface. Spread about 1/4 cup of the black bean mixture evenly onto one half of the tortilla, then fold it over to form a half moon shape.
3. Fry the Tacos:
Once the oil is hot (it should shimmer), carefully place the filled tortillas into the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until the tortillas turn golden brown and crispy. Make sure the filling is warmed through as well.
4. Drain and Serve:
Remove the crispy tacos from the pan and place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil if necessary. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling, adding more oil to the pan if needed for frying.
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve your crispy black bean tacos garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a zesty finish. Squeeze some lime juice over the top for extra flavor, and enjoy your delicious, healthy meal!
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Beans?
Absolutely! While black beans are delicious, feel free to substitute with pinto beans or chickpeas for a different flavor. Just make sure to season them well!
Can I Make These Tacos Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian, and to make it vegan, simply skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. The tacos are tasty even without cheese!
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Although the tortillas are best fresh, you can reheat them in a skillet for a few minutes to crisp them up again!
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Get creative! Top your tacos with fresh avocado, salsa, sour cream, or diced tomatoes. You can also add hot sauce for extra heat or lettuce for added crunch!
