These crispy black bean tacos are super simple and packed with flavor! The crunchy shells filled with seasoned black beans make for a satisfying meal any day of the week.
Honestly, who can resist a taco? Add your favorite toppings like salsa and avocado, and you’ve got a fiesta on your plate! These tacos are not just easy to make; they’ll brighten up your dinner table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Black Beans: Use canned black beans for ease. You could also use kidney beans or pinto beans if black beans aren’t available. Just remember to rinse them to remove excess sodium.
Cheese: I suggest a blend of cheddar and Mexican cheese for a perfect melt. If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based cheese or leave it out for a tasty vegan option!
Tortillas: Corn tortillas provide that authentic taco flavor. If you prefer, you could use flour tortillas, but the texture will be different. Look for gluten-free tortillas if needed!
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika are key for flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will work. A dash of cayenne can add some heat if you like things spicy!
How Do I Get My Tacos Perfectly Crispy?
To achieve a nicely crispy taco, proper frying is essential. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat the oil before adding the tortillas. A drop of water should sizzle when it’s ready.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; fry a few tacos at a time to ensure even cooking.
- Cook on medium heat, adjusting if the oil is smoking. You want golden brown, not burnt.
- Let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil after frying.
With these tips, you’ll enjoy tacos that are crispy on the outside, warm and cheesy on the inside!
Easy Crispy Black Bean Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1-2 tbsp vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Optional toppings: salsa, avocado slices, sour cream, chopped onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll have crispy, delicious tacos ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Black Bean Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mash the black beans lightly with a fork or a potato masher. Leave some beans whole for a bit of texture. Then, add the shredded cheese, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
2. Fill the Tortillas:
Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Take about 2-3 tablespoons of the black bean mixture and spread it evenly over one half of the tortilla. Fold the tortilla over to cover the filling, pressing gently to seal it closed.
3. Fry the Tacos:
Heat about 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the filled tortillas in the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy and the cheese has melted.
4. Drain and Serve:
Remove the tacos from the skillet and let them drain on a paper towel to get rid of any excess oil. Repeat the frying process with the remaining tortillas and filling, adding more oil as necessary.
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve your crispy black bean tacos hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and lime wedges on the side. Feel free to add your favorite toppings like salsa, avocado slices, or sour cream to make them even more delicious!
Enjoy your easy and crispy black bean tacos!
FAQ for Easy Crispy Black Bean Tacos
Can I Use Dried Beans Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can! If using dried beans, make sure to soak and cook them thoroughly before mashing. This can add quite a bit of prep time, so plan accordingly. One can of black beans is about 1.5 cups cooked, which is roughly equivalent to 1 cup of dried beans.
How Do I Make These Tacos Spicier?
To add some heat, you can incorporate diced jalapeños or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the bean mixture. Additionally, serving with a spicy salsa or hot sauce can kick up the heat!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet on medium heat until warmed through and crispy again.
Is There a Vegan Option for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute. The black beans and spices still provide plenty of flavor and satisfaction!
