These easy crispy black bean tacos are packed with flavor! The black beans give them a hearty feel, while the crispiness takes your taste buds on a fun ride. 🌮
They are quick to make, which is perfect for those busy weeknights. I love adding some fresh toppings like avocado and salsa—it’s like a little fiesta on a plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Black Beans: Canned black beans are convenient. You can substitute them with pinto beans or chickpeas for a twist, but be sure to mash them well to keep the texture!
Cheese: I love using shredded cheddar for its meltiness. Feel free to swap it with pepper jack for a spicy kick or skip cheese entirely for a vegan option—add more avocado instead!
Tortillas: Corn tortillas give a nice crisp. If you prefer flour tortillas, that’s totally fine! Just adjust the frying time, as they might not need as long.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a zesty touch. If you’re not a fan, try chopped green onions or leave it out altogether. Fresh lime juice is great regardless!
How Can I Achieve the Perfectly Crispy Tacos?
Getting that crunch in your tacos is essential! Here’s how to make sure your tacos come out crispy and delicious:
- Heat the oil properly: It should be medium-hot. Test it by dropping a tiny piece of tortilla in—if it sizzles, you’re good to go.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Fry a few at a time to ensure they get even cooking and crispiness.
- Press gently: When frying, slightly press the tacos with a spatula. This helps them brown evenly on both sides.
- Drain on paper towels: This helps remove excess oil, keeping them crispy until serving.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly crispy black bean tacos every time!
Easy Crispy Black Bean Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican cheese blend)
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn tortillas (or flour tortillas)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook, making it a total of about 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty dinner, or a fun family meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bean Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, use a fork or potato masher to roughly mash the black beans. Try to leave some beans whole for a nice texture. This adds a hearty feel to the tacos!
2. Mix in the Flavors:
Add the shredded cheese, diced onion, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the mashed beans. Mix everything together until well combined. It should smell amazing!
3. Assemble Your Tacos:
Lay out the tortillas on a flat surface. Take the bean mixture and divide it evenly among half of the tortillas, spreading it out to cover one side. Don’t overfill, or it might spill out when you fry!
4. Fold and Seal:
Carefully fold each tortilla in half over the filling. Press gently to seal the edges so nothing spills out while cooking. Firm but gentle pressure works best!
5. Fry the Tacos:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the folded tacos in the pan, frying them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You want them to turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
6. Drain and Serve:
Once crispy, remove the tacos from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels to soak up any extra oil. This keeps them crisp and delicious!
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve your crispy black bean tacos warm, topping them with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your meal!
These tacos are not only easy to make but also a hit with family and friends. Perfect for Taco Tuesday or any day you’re craving something tasty!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Dried Black Beans Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can! If using dried black beans, be sure to soak and cook them first until tender. This will require extra time, so plan accordingly. One can of beans is roughly equivalent to 1.5 cups of cooked beans.
How Do I Keep the Tacos From Getting Soggy?
To prevent sogginess, make sure to drain the black beans well before mashing them. Additionally, frying the tacos until they are crispy and draining them on paper towels after frying will help maintain their crunch.
Can I Make These Tacos Vegan-Friendly?
Absolutely! Simply omit the cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also add avocado slices or a side of guacamole for a creamy texture!
What Are Some Good Toppings for My Tacos?
Great toppings include chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, salsa, avocado, or a dollop of sour cream (or vegan sour cream). Feel free to get creative—these tacos are versatile!
