These Easy Crispy Black Bean Tacos are a fun and tasty meal! Filled with crunchy shells and flavorful black beans, they’re sure to make your taste buds dance!
The best part? You can load them up with all your favorite toppings like salsa and avocado. I love making these for a quick dinner, and they always leave me smiling. 🌮😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Black Beans: Canned black beans make this recipe super convenient! If you’re out of them, feel free to use cooked lentils or refried beans as an alternative, which can add a creamy texture.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas work best for crispy tacos. If you prefer flour tortillas or need a gluten-free option, just swap them out! Just note that the texture will be slightly different.
Cheese: I love using shredded cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend for its great melt and flavor. If you’re dairy-free, consider using a plant-based cheese for the same melting effect.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder add amazing depth to the filling! Don’t hesitate to swap the spices for taco seasoning if it’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Make the Tacos Crispy?
Getting crispy tacos requires a bit of attention while frying. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the tacos. It should sizzle as you place them in.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry only a few at a time to allow even cooking.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula to ensure all edges crisp up. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
- Drain excess oil on paper towels to keep them from becoming soggy.
These tips will give you that perfect crunch in every bite! Enjoy your tacos!
Easy Crispy Black Bean Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn tortillas
- Cooking oil (for frying)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 10-15 minutes for cooking, making it a total of about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mash the Black Beans:
In a medium mixing bowl, take your drained and rinsed black beans and mash them with a fork or potato masher. Aim for a mostly smooth consistency but leave some chunks for texture.
2. Mix in the Flavors:
Add the olive oil, cheese, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and black pepper to the mashed black beans. Stir everything together until well combined.
3. Warm the Tortillas:
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place each tortilla in the skillet one at a time, warming them for about 20-30 seconds on each side until they’re soft and pliable.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of the black bean mixture onto half of each tortilla. Fold the tortilla over to create a taco shape, enclosing the filling.
5. Fry the Tacos:
In a larger skillet, heat about 1-2 tablespoons of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the folded tacos into the hot oil, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Gently press down with a spatula to help them crisp up. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown and crispy!
6. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the tacos from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. This helps keep them crispy!
7. Get Ready to Enjoy:
Serve the warm tacos garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side for squeezing over. The freshness from the lime gives a fantastic kick!
Enjoy your easy, crispy, flavorful black bean tacos! They are perfect for a quick vegetarian meal or snack. 🌮✨
FAQ for Easy Crispy Black Bean Tacos
Can I Use a Different Type of Bean?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of black beans, you can substitute them with pinto beans, kidney beans, or even refried beans. Just make sure to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste!
How Can I Make These Tacos Gluten-Free?
To make your tacos gluten-free, simply use gluten-free corn tortillas. Many brands are available, so check the label to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.
What Should I Do with Leftover Tacos?
If you have leftover filling, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can quickly reheat it on the stove. For crispy leftover tacos, avoid reheating them in a microwave, as they can become soggy; instead, use a skillet to warm them gently.
Can I Prepare the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the black bean mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before using, and it will save you time when you’re ready to assemble and fry the tacos!
