These crispy black bean tacos are a fun and healthy dinner option. Packed with flavor and good-for-you ingredients, they’re sure to please everyone at the table!
The best part? You can load them up with your favorite toppings! I love piling on avocado and salsa. Trust me, who can resist a taco night? 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Black Beans: These provide protein and fiber. For a different flavor, use pinto beans or chickpeas. Canned black beans are convenient; just rinse them well to reduce sodium.
Corn Kernels: Fresh corn adds sweetness and crunch, but you can easily substitute canned corn or frozen corn. If you’re avoiding carbs, skip the corn altogether!
Onion and Garlic: They enhance the flavor. I love using red onions for a bit more sweetness. Scallions or shallots can also work if you have them on hand.
Cheese: I recommend cheddar or a Mexican blend for melting. However, for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or vegan cheese instead.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional. For a gluten-free option, make sure to use gluten-free tortillas or lettuce wraps for a lighter version.
How Do You Get Your Tacos Extra Crispy?
Making crispy tacos is all about the frying technique. Here’s how to achieve that perfect crunch:
- Heat your oil in a non-stick skillet until it shimmers. This ensures the tortillas fry evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry a few at a time for the best results.
- Press down gently on the tacos with a spatula as they fry. This helps them cook evenly and get that crisp outer layer.
- Drain the fried tacos on paper towels immediately after frying to keep them crispy.
Enjoying crispy black bean tacos is all about timing and temperature. Perfecting this step will elevate your taco night!
Crispy Black Bean Tacos – Easy & Healthy Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
For The Tacos:
- 12 small corn tortillas
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil, for frying
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Optional toppings: avocado slices, salsa, sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy dinner idea that comes together fast, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mash the black beans using a fork or potato masher. Aim for a mostly smooth texture while leaving some small chunks for extra flavor. Next, mix in the corn, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined. Lastly, stir in the shredded cheese until the mixture holds together nicely.
2. Assemble the Tacos:
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. While the oil is heating up, take a tortilla and spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the black bean mixture onto one half of the tortilla. Carefully fold the tortilla in half, forming a half-moon shape. Continue this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
3. Fry the Tacos:
Once the oil is hot, fry each filled tortilla in the skillet for about 3 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a golden brown color and a crispy texture. If the tortillas start to puff up, gently press them down with a spatula. This helps them cook evenly and become nice and crispy!
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer your delicious tacos to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. Feel free to add any optional toppings you love, such as avocado slices, salsa, or sour cream. Dive in and enjoy your crispy, flavorful, and nutritious black bean tacos!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Beans?
Absolutely! While black beans are delicious, you can substitute pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas for a different flavor and texture. Just make sure to mash them similarly to achieve the right consistency.
How Can I Make These Tacos Vegan?
Making these tacos vegan is easy! Simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also add more veggies or avocado to enhance the flavor without sacrificing creaminess!
Can I Prep These Tacos Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply assemble and fry the tacos fresh to maintain their crispiness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover tacos can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through to keep them crispy. Avoid the microwave, as it may make the tacos soggy.
