Name: Crispy Black Bean Tacos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 19 ounce can black beans (2-3 cups); ½ cup salsa; 1 tablespoon taco seasoning; 1 tablespoon chipotle pepper in adobo sauce; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ – 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional); Green onions, sliced (optional); Dairy-free cheese (optional); Diced tomatoes or pico de gallo (optional); Avocado slices or guacamole (optional); Non-dairy sour cream (optional); Pickled red onions (optional); Creamy cole slaw (optional); Romaine lettuce ribbons (optional); Dipping sauces (optional)

why make this recipe

Crispy Black Bean Tacos are a delicious and easy meal you can enjoy any day of the week. They are packed with flavor and are great for both meat-lovers and those looking for a hearty plant-based option. These tacos are not only nutritious but also customizable with your favorite toppings. Plus, they can be made quickly, making them a perfect go-to dinner or snack.

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how to make Crispy Black Bean Tacos

Ingredients:

19 ounce can black beans (2-3 cups)
½ cup salsa
1 tablespoon taco seasoning (more to taste)
1 tablespoon chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (sriracha or chipotle tabasco sauce)
½ teaspoon garlic powder (more to taste)
½ – 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
Green onions, sliced (optional)
Dairy-free cheese (optional)
Diced tomatoes or pico de gallo (optional)
Avocado slices or guacamole (optional)
Non-dairy sour cream (optional)
Pickled red onions (optional)
Creamy cole slaw (optional)
Romaine lettuce ribbons (optional)
Dipping sauces (optional)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 450º F if you are using the oven-baked method for cooking.
Drain and rinse the black beans.
Blend the black beans, salsa, taco seasoning, chipotle pepper, garlic powder, and salt in a food processor until it’s a little chunky. Stir in chopped cilantro or parsley if you like.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add green onions and salt. Cook until fragrant, then add the bean filling and cook for about 5 minutes.
Scoop the filling onto one side of a tortilla, fold it over, and then repeat with the rest.
For the oven method: Brush tortillas with oil, place them on a baking sheet, and cook for 6-8 minutes. Flip and continue cooking for another 6-8 minutes or until crispy.
Prepare your chosen toppings and sauces while the tacos cook.
Serve immediately with your desired toppings and sauces.
For the pan-fried method: Spread filling on half of the tortilla, fold, and fry in oil until crispy.
For the air-fried method: Fill, fold, brush with oil, and air fry at 400ºF for 5-6 minutes.

how to serve Crispy Black Bean Tacos

Serve your Crispy Black Bean Tacos hot straight from the oven, skillet, or air fryer. You can place out bowls of toppings like diced tomatoes, avocado, non-dairy sour cream, and green onions so everyone can customize their own tacos. They make a fun meal for gatherings and are excellent served with dipping sauces on the side.

how to store Crispy Black Bean Tacos

If you have any leftovers, store the filled and cooked tacos in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the oven or air fryer to ensure they stay crispy. If you have leftover filling, store it separately in the fridge for up to 4 days.

tips to make Crispy Black Bean Tacos

Make sure to rinse and drain the black beans well to reduce the excess liquid.
Feel free to adjust the seasonings and spices according to your taste preference.
For extra crispy tacos, make sure to brush enough oil on the tortillas before baking or air frying.
Experiment with different toppings or even add some cooked vegetables for added nutrition.

variation

You can switch up the filling by adding in some corn, diced peppers, or other beans. Try using different types of tortillas, such as corn or whole wheat, for a unique twist. For a spicier version, add extra chipotle or even jalapeños.

FAQs

Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just assemble and cook the tacos when you are ready to eat.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Absolutely! Canned black beans work great and save time. Just remember to rinse them before use.

How do I make these tacos gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortillas for your tacos to keep them gluten-free. Most corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free.